Buddha Jayanti: Dharmadeshana, Bhikshadan observed in Yangon

Kathmandu, May 2: A Dharmadeshana (Buddhist sermons) and Bhikshadan (alms offering ceremony) were organized by the Nepali Embassy in Yangon, Myanmar, on the occasion of the 2570th Buddha Jayanti.

The event was held on Friday. 

The event began with the lighting of a lamp (Deep Prajwalan) and the offering of a wreath to a statue of Gautam Buddha consecrated in the embassy premises.     

Welcoming the attendees, Nepal’s Ambassador to Myanmar, Harischandra Ghimire, spoke about the teachings and principles of Buddhism. He also highlighted Myanmar’s historical connection with Gautam Buddha in ancient times, adding that two strands of Buddha’s hair have been preserved at the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon.     

He emphasized the deep religious ties shared between Nepal and Myanmar.     

Vikkhus from a monastery in Yangon delivered sermons on the life, discourse, and principles of Buddha. The preaching was conducted by monks from a monastery in Yangon. After the sermons, donations and alms were offered to seven monks and a nun.     

The event was attended by representatives from the Union of Myanmar Travel Association, Bodh Gaya Pilgrimage Working Committee, All Myanmar Gorkha Hindu Religious Organisation, NRNA Myanmar, as well as members of the Nepali community in Myanmar.     

The attendees were served Nepali cuisine and prasad, food that is considered blessed after the religious ceremony.(RSS)