The Bangladesh Bouddha Kristi Prachar Sangha in association with the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC), celebrated Ashadhi Purnima on Thursday at the Dharmarajika Buddhist Monastery premises in Dhaka, says a press release.
President of Bangladesh Bouddha Kristi Prachar Sangha Buddhapriya Mahathero, said that the sacred significance of Ashadhi Purnima, marking the day when Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath, thus initiating the Dhammachakkapavattana, or the turning of the Wheel of Dharma.
He noted that this day also marks the beginning of Varsha Vassa, the traditional monastic retreat during the rainy season.
In his address, high commissioner Pranay Verma underlined the shared Buddhist heritage of India and Bangladesh, with India being the land of the Buddha鈥檚 enlightenment, first sermon, and Mahaparinirvana and Bangladesh being home to Buddhist leaders like Atisha.
He reaffirmed that India remains deeply committed to promoting the teachings of Buddha and supporting Buddhist heritage through collaborative efforts in conserving Buddhist artefacts, supporting monastic education, and fostering cultural understanding.
Also present at the occasion were Ranjit Kumar Barua and Swarupananda Bhikku, vice-presidents of the Sangha.
The programme was attended by youth delegates, monks, artists, academics, diplomats and Budhist community members in large numbers.
