500 novice monks take part in Dhamma Yatra

BY OUR CORRESPONDENT,Bhairahawa, Mar. 31: The Dhamma Yatra held in Bhairahawa under the ‘500 Kulputra Pravrajya’ programme has been completed. Around 500 newly ordained novice monks participated in the procession on Saturday evening, spreading messages of peace, compassion, and coexistence.

Inspired by Lord Buddha’s historic journey from Rajgriha to Kapilvastu, the yatra was presented not only as a religious ritual but also as a campaign for social transformation.

During the procession, saffron-robed monks walked in an orderly line, carrying shoulder bags (gwapa) with their belongings. They walked barefoot, symbolising austerity, simplicity, and discipline. Cloth was laid along the route and scattered with marigold petals as a mark of respect.

Lumbini Province Speaker Tularam Ghartimagar said Nepal being Buddha’s birthplace is a matter of pride and stressed promoting Lumbini as a global peace centre. He expressed concern over rising violence and urged people to promote respect, harmony, and cooperation, embracing ‘we’ over ‘I.’ He added that practising the Eightfold Path and Five Precepts gives such programmes a true meaning.

He said naming Lumbini Province after Buddha’s birthplace has strengthened its international identity and thanked monks, devotees, and the public for their participation, expressing confidence that such activities spread positive energy.

Organisers believed the yatra would also promote religious tourism in Lumbini, noting strong public participation. Overall, they stated that the event successfully spread messages of peaceful coexistence, ethical living, and social harmony.