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The Star
4 days ago
- General
- The Star
For the love of peace for all across South-East Asia as Buddhists in Malaysia celebrate the Wesak festivities in prayers and also style
In wishing peace for all in the region of Asia and South-East Asia during troubled times and tariff wars set by the US and in some places seeing the heartache of wars and then some countries also suffering devastating natural disasters, Malaysian Buddhists celebrated the continuing Wesak festivities in fine and grateful style in Brickfields on Saturday (May 31). But while the call for peace was done strongly across the region with prayers being the call of the day but there was much fun, games and festivities (which included dance performances) in the event held at the Dewan Asoka at the event. In much celebration there were much significance for all Buddhists' in the country for the festival and honouring the threefold celebration in celebrating Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and passing with reverence and joy. Significance of the Dana Ceremony This event celebrates Buddhist teachings and the spirit of community. It unites monks, leaders, and devotees from various traditions, showcasing the unity and diversity of Malaysia's rich Buddhist heritage. The Dana ceremony highlights collective generosity and compassion, bringing together hundreds to share in this meaningful act of giving. Expression of Gratitude to the Sangha After the spiritual observances of Wesak celebration the birth, enlightenment, and passing (Parinirvana) of the Buddha. The offering Dana to the Sangha (monastic community) is a way for laypeople to express gratitude and respect for the monks and nuns who preserve and share the Dhamma (teachings of the Buddha). It means giving back in appreciation for their spiritual guidance, discipline, and commitment to preserving the Buddha's teachings. What It Means Gratitude to the Sangha Following the spiritual observances of Wesak—which commemorate the birth, enlightenment, and passing (Parinirvana) of the Buddha—offering Dana to the Sangha (monastic community) is a meaningful way for laypeople to express gratitude and respect. The Sangha preserves and transmits the Dhamma, guiding laypeople through their spiritual journey. By offering Dana (food, robes, medicines, and other necessities), devotees: -- Honor the Sangha's dedication and spiritual service. -- Acknowledge their vital role in preserving the Buddha's teachings. -- Support their continued practice free from material concerns. This act of giving strengthens the bond between the lay community and the monastics, sustaining the Dhamma across generations. Three main Buddhist sects and their traditions: 1. Theravada -- Oldest school of Buddhism -- Practiced mainly in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia -- Focuses on the Pali Canon, individual enlightenment, and monastic discipline. -- Emphasizes meditation, morality, and wisdom. 2. Mahayana -- Spread across China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam -- Broader path focused on compassion and helping all beings achieve enlightenment. -- Includes schools like Zen and Pure Land -- Belief in Bodhisattvas (enlightened beings who delay Nirvana to help others) 3. Vajrayana -- Mainly found in Tibet, Bhutan, Mongolia, and parts of the Himalayas -- Combines Mahayana philosophy with esoteric rituals, mantras, and visualizations. -- Strong focus on teacher-student transmission (guru yoga) Cultivation of Merit (Punya) In Buddhism, Dana (generosity) is one of the most powerful ways to earn merit, good karma that leads to peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth. Offering food and essentials to the Sangha after a sacred day like Wesak helps purify the mind and brings blessings to both giver and receiver. Continuation of a Sacred Tradition For over 2,500 years, Buddhists have practiced Dana as taught by the Buddha. Offering to the Sangha after Wesak links the day's spiritual meaning with a timeless act of giving, strengthening the community's connection to the faith. Uniting the Community Through Dana A large Wesak Dana invites hundreds to give together, fostering compassion, unity, and a shared sense of purpose.
Time Business News
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Business News
Venerable Bibiladeniye Mahanama Thero Breaks New Ground in Music, Cinema, and Spiritual Innovation
Venerable Bibiladeniye Mahanama Thero, a distinguished monk of the Theravada Buddhist Order, has emerged as a groundbreaking figure in the fusion of spirituality, music, and art across Asia. As the only Theravada monk actively experimenting with music as a medium of aesthetic expression, the Thero's influence spans continents and disciplines. In 2014, Venerable Mahanama Thero released his debut experimental album Share the Love , focusing on themes of spirituality and relaxation. The album was distributed across Europe, Asia, and Sri Lanka and was recognized with the prestigious State Music Award for Best Album in Sri Lanka in 2015. His entry into the world of cinema in 2017 marked a historical milestone, becoming the first Buddhist monk to direct music for a feature film with Giriwasipura , directed by Devinda Kongahage. His cinematic portfolio has since expanded to include Nattami Army , DHARA (directed by Anuruddha Jayasingha), and Neeraputtu Nerappu , among others. Recognizing the importance of digital outreach, the Thero has extended his musical contributions into the mobile wellness space. His work includes collaborations with Mind Supply (USA) and Rest Tech (India), along with his role as co-founder and content director of Heallift Mindfulness, a leading Sri Lankan meditation and mental well-being app. In 2019, he introduced Sri Lanka's first Conceptual Musical Short Film, Wallstory , followed by Piece for Peace in 2021, released in celebration of World Peace Day. These digital projects highlight his commitment to peace, interfaith unity, and innovation in spiritual media. A dedicated preservationist, Venerable Mahanama Thero also led the 2015–2016 restoration of traditional Jathaka Katha (Jathaka Stories) recitals. The initiative involved over 150 monks and produced more than 500 hours of traditional voice recordings, preserving a key element of Theravada Buddhist heritage. His global impact extends further as the Sri Lankan music director for You Are Always with Me , the first-ever TV drama co-produced by Sri Lanka and China, directed by Cui Yali. The Thero is also the founder of the Share the Love Foundation of Ceylon and the Sandhara Spiritual Research and Anthropology Centre, and holds positions in numerous international organizations focused on environmental, animal, and multi-religious welfare. Notable Works: TIME BUSINESS NEWS
India Gazette
12-05-2025
- Politics
- India Gazette
Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat attend Buddha Purnima celebrations at National Museum
New Delhi [India], May 12 (ANI): Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Gajendra Singh Shekawat on Monday paid their obeisance to the holy relics of Lord Buddha at the National Museum during the celebrations of Vaishakha Buddha Purnima. The Vaishakha Buddha Purnima today was marked by a sombre ceremony on the quiet and tranquil surroundings of the National Museum where the holy relics of the Buddha are kept. Minister of Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat along with by Union Minister of Parliamentary and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju joined a group of Theravada and Mahayana monks to pay their obeisance to the holy relics, reads an official press release. While the Theravada monks represented the Cambodian Buddhist Temple in New Delhi, the Mahayana monks belonged to the Himalayan Buddhist Cultural Association under the leadership of Lama Chosphel Zotpa. Amidst chanting in both traditions, the two ministers placed flower petals before the holy relics and Khatags while praying. Following the ceremony, the ministers also took a round of the Buddha Gallery of the National Museum which houses, among other artefacts, the seated Bodhisattva from 2nd Century CE, the standing Buddha from the 5th Century CE from Sarnath and the Buddha in meditation pose from the 3rd Century CE from Kushan Dyanasty. Later, Kiren Rijiju, while speaking to the media, mentioned that India, as the birthplace of the Buddha's teachings, takes immense pride in sharing his message of peace, compassion, and harmony with the world. As nations unite in celebration, this occasion is of the universal significance of Buddhist philosophy, guiding humanity toward truth and inner peace. At this critical juncture of various socio-political conflicts, the teachings of the Buddha are more relevant than ever, offering solutions to global challenges through principles of non-violence, understanding, and mindfulness, he added. Union Minister Rijiju reiterated the words of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who, in his address at the United Nations, emphasised that the path to truth and lasting peace lies in following the teachings of the Buddha. The essence of Buddha Dhamma continues to be embraced and shared, ensuring that its wisdom reaches every corner of the world, fostering a future grounded in compassion, unity, and peace. With this thought, he extended his heartfelt wishes to all. Buddha Purnima marks the birth of Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. It is also known as Vesak. In 1999, it became an UN-designated day to acknowledge the contribution of Buddhism to society. It is considered a 'triple-blessed day' - as Tathagata Gautam Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and Maha Parinirvana. Buddha Purnima falls on a full moon night, usually between April and May. Many devotees visit the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, on this occasion. Bodhi Temple is the location where Lord Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment. (ANI)
