Sri Lanka, Sept. 26 -- The observance commemorates MahapajapatiGotami's determination to enter the monastic life and the establishment of the BhikkhuniSangha, while also inviting reflection on the opportunities and challenges women have encountered in the Buddhist tradition.

BinaraPoya holds a special place in the Buddhist calendar as a day associated with the establishment of the BhikkhuniSasana, opening the path of monastic life to women and marking a significant development in the history of the Buddha Sasana. The occasion recalls the determination of MahapajapatiGotami, the Buddha's foster mother, and the eventual acceptance of women into the Order of Bhikkhunis.

The story is also a reminder of a central principle in Buddhism: spir...