Statesman News Service
KALIMPONG, May 23. — Among others, the tribe of Tamang, hailing from the Buddhist Welfare and Cultural Centre (BWCC), celebrated the tri-sacred day of Buddha Jayanti.
The day marked the end of 15 days of pujas, which commenced on 9 May. “Holy scriptures, mainly the Kyagyaur and Tengeur were recited by a total of 40 monks,” general secretary of BWCC, Mr Hari Yonzone, said.
The day began with a rally, which circled the town area. While a section carried the statue of Lord Buddha, others followed carrying Tengeur, Kyagyaur, Bong (holy scriptures) on their heads. Later, Lama Chimmey Rinponche conducted prayer sessions and preaching.
“Followers from Nepal, Bhutan and Sikkim have also attended this 2,549 Buddha Jayanti,” Mr Yonzone said. “This is the main annual event for Buddhists and our object is to promote peace and tranquillity.”
“According to the teachings of Lord Buddha, we want to help the poor and the needy,” he said.
Jamlung, an annual magazine of the BWCC, was also released today.
It was on this day that Lord Buddha was born, ‘attained enlightenment’, and died.
Similarly, the Lepcha Mane, one of the oldest Gompa’s in the sub-division, also celebrated Buddha Jayanti.
Adviser of the Gompa, Thupden Lepcha, said that special pujas — Choke Thoktuk — began from as early as 3 a.m. in the morning.
“We called upon the almighty for world peace and long life for all beings,” Lepcha said.
The 2,550 Jayanti next year is expected to be celebrated in a grand manner.