Tawhidul Islam, Cox's Bazar

The Buddhist community in various villages of Cox’s Bazar is observing their principal religious festival, the Thrice-Blessed Sacred Buddha Purnima, with due religious solemnity and spiritual devotion.

Buddhist monasteries across the region are hosting a range of religious rites and ceremonies to mark the auspicious occasion.

On Sunday morning, the historic Rankut Banashram Buddhist Monastery in Ramu hosted an array of religious programs, including the Churashi Hazar Dharmaskandha Puja (worship of the eighty-four thousand Dharma teachings), Sanghadan (offering to the monastic community), and Ashta Upakaran Dan (offering of eight requisites).

Meanwhile, in Ukhiya, a grand 20-kilometer-long colorful procession was organized by the Universal Buddha Purnima Celebration Committee.

The participants in the procession carried traditional Buddhist artworks, banners, and festoons while chanting devotional Buddha Sankirtan songs. The procession commenced at 7:30 am in front of Kutupalong High School and proceeded through Morichya Station, finally concluding at Madhuratta Ratnankur Buddhist Monastery. Following the procession, a Saddharma Sabha (Dhamma discussion), Ashtapariskaar (ritual purification), Maha Sanghadan (grand offering to the monastic community), and Jñāti Sammelan (community gathering) were held. A free medical camp was also arranged on the occasion.

In addition, colorful processions and discussion meetings were held in various Buddhist villages of Cox’s Bazar Sadar, Ukhiya, Chakaria, and Maheshkhali to mark Buddha Purnima. Early in the morning, every Buddhist monastery conducted Buddha Puja, Uposatha observance (a day of intensified religious practice), and collective prayers.

Buddha Purnima commemorates the three significant events in the life of Gautama Buddha — his birth, enlightenment, and passing into Mahaparinirvana. This Thrice-Blessed Day holds immense spiritual significance for followers of the Buddhist faith.