DU Correspondent 

In celebration of Buddha Purnima, the Bangladesh Buddhist Cultural Council organized a harmony festival and national peace rally on Sunday. 

 The festivities began in the morning with a colourful peace rally that commenced from the premises of the National Museum.

The rally and festival were inaugurated by the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Dhaka, Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan, who also led the rally. Cultural Affairs Ministry Adviser  and renowned filmmaker Mostofa Sarwar Farooki attended the program as the chief guest.

The event was presided over by Professor Dr. Uttam Kumar Barua, President of the Bangladesh Buddhist Cultural Council. Mr. Michael Miller, Ambassador of the European Union to Bangladesh, graced the occasion as an honored guest.

Distinguished speakers included Prof Dr. Sukomal Barua, Chief Advisor of the Peace Rally and Harmony Festival, Associate Prof  Saifuddin Ahmed, Proctor of the University of Dhaka, Dr. Shantu Barua, Chair of the Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies, Kajol Barua, General Secretary of the Buddhist Cultural Council and  Adv  Ripon Kumar Barua, Secretary General of the Council

The welcome speech was delivered by Prof Dr. Ritton Kumar Barua, convener of the festival.

In his address, Vice-Chancellor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan emphasized the relevance of Gautama Buddha’s teachings in today's world—especially the messages of peace, detachment from greed, and contentment with the present. He called for these values to be reflected in national life.

Advisor Mostofa Sarwar Farooki extended greetings on Buddha Purnima and reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to equality among all communities. Highlighting government initiatives to eliminate social disparities, he announced that, for the first time, cultural celebrations for Buddha Purnima have been organized in Dhaka and five other districts, with plans for future nationwide observances.

Following the speeches, the peace rally proceeded through various areas of the Dhaka University campus, including TSC, spreading messages of unity, compassion, and interfaith harmony.