National
Lumbini hosts international prayer for peace, brotherhood
A three-day International Tripitaka Recitation programme has commenced in Lumbini, the birth place of Gautam Buddha, from Wednesday.Manoj Paudel
A three-day International Tripitaka Recitation programme has commenced in Lumbini, the birth place of Gautam Buddha, from Wednesday.
According to organisers, around 700 monks, nuns and officials from 18 different countries are attending the International Tripitaka Recitation programme jointly organised by All Nepal Bhikchu Association and Royal Thai Vihar. The programme has been organised for the first time in Nepal.
Subarnamuni Shakya, treasurer of Lumbini Development Trust; Bhakavat Tanskul, Thai ambassador to Nepal among others carried a palanquin of Buddhist holy books to the programme venue in a peace rally from Akhanda Shanti Deep (Incessant Peace Flame).
Thai monks led the recitations followed by monks and nuns from Nepal, Myanmar and Sri Lanka. The organisers said the Tripitaka recitation programme was held to spread the message of peace and brotherhood in the world by spreading the holiness and spiritual energy of Lumbini.
“Lord Gautam Buddha visited various places for 45 years after he was enlightened. The scriptures related to Lumbini and Kapilvastu are being recited in the programme here,” said Maitri Mahaasthbir, chairman of All Nepal Bhikchu Association. Such programmes should be organised in Lumbini every year, he added.
Pakhunigrodh Bachchaka-ne, a Thai Buddhist monk who arrived in Lumbini along with 104 monks from Thailand, said all the participants were very happy upon receiving the energy of peace and goodwill in Lumbini.
The Maya Devi Temple premises in Lumbini has been decorated with banners, garlands and flowers in view of the programme.