Virginia 
Vap is of very special significance for Sri Lankan Buddhists as it marks the end of the Vas season – Bhikkhus’ three months rain retreat.
This is the month for offering new robes to the Bhikkhus who observed Vas on the rainy retreat starting from the month of Esala. Vap Poya also marks the conclusion of the Buddha’s preaching of the Abhidhamma to his mother Mathru Divya Raja in Thavuthisa heaven and his arrival at Sankassapura. Various religious programmes are being held in temples throughout the country. The 79th programme of the Poya Day programme launched by President Mahinda Rajapaksa when he was the Prime Minister was conducted today at the temple trees. A large number of devotees including first lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa were present. The Dhamma Sermon was delivered by lecturer of the Kelaniya University Ven. Ath-kandure Sumanasara Thera. Meanwhile the Poya Day programme ‘Savanak Ras’ of the ITN is being telecast from the premises of the Kalutara Bodhi.
