The Chief incumbent of the Mihintale Raja Maha Viharaya, Venerable Walawahengunawewe Dhammarathana Thero has expressed his gratitude to the government for its decision to hold the 2025 Poson Festival with full state patronage.

Venerable Dhammarathana Thero made this remark during a discussion held today (21) at the Presidential Secretariat regarding the 2025 State Poson Festival, according to the Presidential Media Division.

The discussion was attended by Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi and Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, among others.

Venerable Dhammarathana Thero stated that recommencing the State Poson Festival, which had been discontinued since 2023, and preserving it for future generations is a responsibility of the government, the PMD added.

In line with the State Poson Festival, a series of programs focusing on both material (āmisā) and spiritual (pratipatti) offerings is planned to commence from 1 June.

The Poson Week will be observed from 7 to 13 June, and during this period, a decision has been made to close all liquor stores in the Anuradhapura District.

The discussion also focused on providing all necessary facilities for the hundreds of thousands of people expected to visit Anuradhapura during the festival period.

Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake also instructed state officials to take necessary steps to provide all provisions and facilities required for the State Poson Festival.