Buddha Purnima was celebrated with religious fervour and gaiety in Tripura on Friday (May 5). Lord Buddha was born, attained enlightment and Maha Nirvana on this tithi. The main function was organized at Venu Van Buddha Vihar in Agartala today.
The celebration at the Venu Van Buddha Vihar begun with a ‘Prabhat Pheri’, followed by hoisting the Viswa Buddha flag and Buddha Puja. In the evening, a seminar on ‘Greatness of Buddha Purnima’ was held. Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha inaugurated the seminar.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Saha focused on Lord Buddha’s message of love, non-violence and brotherhood. He said, Lord Buddha’s message continues to guide humanity through centuries.
The Chief Minister assured that initiatives would be taken to develop the school and centre of Venuvan Vihar. Dr Saha also planted a sapling at the Buddha Vihar premises and handed over prizes to the winners of sit and draw competition organized on the occasion of Buddha Purnima.
Among others, Secretary of Ramakrishna Mission, Viveknagar- Swami Subhakarananda Maharaj, Director of Mahabodhi Overseas Centre of Atlanta, America- Niyani Rakhita and Vice-Chancellor of MBB University Dr. Satyadeo Poddar were present.
Besides, Buddha Purnima was celebrated in other parts of the State including Sabroom, Manu Bankol, Santirbazar and Pencharthal etc.
The Day was celebrated with traditional religious fervour and enthusiasm at Pencharthal Udayan Buddha Vihar. Several programmes were held to mark the Day including rendering ‘Tipitak’. Buddhist Vikku Satyananda Mahathero, Dr Rastrapal Mahathero and others focused on life messages and philosophy of Lord Buddha.
In the evening thousand lamps were lit and ‘Akash Pradip’ were floated in the air.
Followers of Lord Buddha also celebrated Buddha Purnima in other areas of the Unakoti District and North district.
In South District, Manu Bankol’s Joyshree Buddha Vihar was the centre of main attraction.
Explaining the significance of Buddhism, Dhamika Vante said, On the birthday of lord Gautama Buddha, Buddhists pray for the welfare of the world upholding peace, friendship and compassion. Buddhism is much needed today for world peace and cooperation among all.