International Tripitaka Puja by Buddhists begins at Bodh Gaya
The Tripitaka chanting ceremony is taking place under the mythological Bodhi tree located behind the Mahatobodhi Temple where Buddha is believed to have got enlightenment in the 6th century BC.
Some 3,000 Dharmgurus (religious heads) and monks from 13 countries, such as Sri Lanka, Laos, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia are participating in the holy chanting praying for world peace.
The ritual will continue for the next 10 days before culminating into a peace march on December 13 when the Buddhists will undertake foot march from Jethian, another Buddhist site in Gaya district, to Venuvan at Rajgir in Nalanda district.
This is the 12th International Tripitaka chanting being organized by the Light of Buddha Dharma Foundation International, a spiritual organisation of overseas Buddhists.
On Friday, Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind formally inaugurated the Tripitaka chanting ceremony.
“I am happy to welcome the representatives from South-East Asia to this holy place. We are honoured as you choose to return to return to our country again and again. I believe your visit would be productive and fruitful,” was show the Governor said, addressing the ceremony.
(thebiharpost.com/IBNS)
