A delegation from the Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC) met Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary at his secretariat in Patna on Thursday to extend a formal invitation for the upcoming Buddha Purnima celebrations. The event is scheduled to take place on May 1 at the revered Mahabodhi Mahavihara in Bodh Gaya.
As part of the traditional ceremonial welcome, the delegation presented the Chief Minister with a khada, a pious Buddhist scarf, along with several mementoes. These included a framed Bodhi leaf, a replica of Lord Buddha, and select artworks symbolizing the rich cultural heritage of Buddhism.
According to a press release issued by the BTMC on Thursday evening, the Chief Minister graciously accepted the invitation and agreed to attend the Buddha Purnima celebrations as the chief guest. His presence is expected to add significant prestige and sanctity to the occasion.
The delegation was led by BTMC member secretary Mahashweta Maharathi and included Mahavihara chief priest Bhikkhu Chalinda, caretaker monk Bhikkhu Dinanand, and BTMC members Bhikkhu T Okonogi and Arvind Singh. The members expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister, emphasizing that his participation would enhance the spiritual significance of the event.
Buddha Purnima, also known as Vesak, is one of the most sacred festivals in Buddhism, commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha. The Mahabodhi Mahavihara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the epicenter of these celebrations, drawing thousands of pilgrims and tourists from around the world.
