Literally meaning “firm, hard, solid”, kathina in the Vinaya refers to a sturdy wooden frame used to stretch and sew robes. By extension, it names the post–rains retreat robe-offering season and the formal Sangha act that confers “kathina privileges” (kathinānisaṃsa) on the monks who completed vassa at that monastery.

The occasion sees lay communities offer robes and other necessities to the Sangha. This practice renews the spirit of dāna (generosity), gratitude, and communal harmony. The core of the festival is the same, but local cultures shape its expression.


Kathina in Colombo, Sri Lanka



In Colombo, Sri Lanka, the observance follows the three-month vassa (rains retreat). Temples in the city hold dawn offerings. This is followed by the formal kathina robe-offering. The robe is given to one monastery that maintained the vassa. The Sangha then conducts the kathina ceremony.

The celebration includes Sinhala Buddhist pageantry. A procession carries the unsewn robe cloth. This is done in a perahera style, with canopies, drumming, and dance. The temple grounds are decorated with lanterns and banners. Offerings include rice and curry, kiriperahera elephant bath, and sweets. Donor families often dedicate merit to deceased relatives.

Socially, corporate and neighborhood committees often co-sponsor the event. This reflects the lay-sangha relationship. The day may also include blood donation drives or school supply distributions.


Kathin in Chiang Mai, Thailand



In Chiang Mai, Thailand, the festival is known as thod Kathin (ทอดกฐิน). It unfolds as a lively merit festival. Temples receive cloth trees and money trees before the formal robe-offering.

The culture of northern Thailand shapes the event. Processions feature Lanna flags and local musical ensembles. Artisan communities present handwoven cotton and silk. The timing sometimes overlaps with the Yi Peng season, so paper lanterns may be seen. Food offerings include khao soi and other northern dishes.

Families and business guilds act as kathin sponsors. They often travel in caravans to deliver offerings to rural temples. The event supports temple maintenance and strengthens community ties.


A Plural Kathina in Penang, Malaysia



In Penang, Malaysia, Theravāda communities with Thai, Burmese, and Sri Lankan lineages hold kathina. Different temples in George Town host their own ceremonies from October to November.

The event reflects Malaysia's plural heritage. Chanting is in Pali but may use Thai, Burmese, or Sinhala melodies. Processions can feature different traditional dresses. Money trees and robe cloth are offered. Food fairs blend Thai curries, Burmese mohinga, and Malaysian nasi lemak. Sometimes, Lion Dance troupes join the processions.

On 12 October 2025, the Royal Thai Consulate in Penang held a Royal Kathina Ceremony at Wat Chaiya Mangalaram Thai Buddhist Temple. At the solemn and reverent affair, H.E. Mrs Sirilak Niyom of Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, presented the royal robes to the monks as representative of King Vajiralongkorn of Thailand.

Urban charities often partner with temples for fundraising. Merit-making includes support for schools and elder homes. Youth groups handle logistics, showing the involvement of the Malaysian Buddhist youth movement.


Greeting kathina across countries

Across all countries, the religious spine of kathina is shared. It must be held within one lunar month after vassa. The ritual heart is the offering of robe cloth and the Sangha's formal act. Lay people often renew their precepts. The ceremonies end with the dedication of merit. The emphasis is on generosity, community harmony, and support for monastic discipline.

For visitors, it is advised to dress modestly and follow temple cues. Those wishing to sponsor a kathina should coordinate with a temple well in advance.