Agartala, May 12: Along with the rest of the world, Buddha Purnima was observed here at Agartala with a traditional fervour to mark not only the day when Gautam Buddha was born, but also the day when he attained Nirvana under the Mahabodhi tree at Bodh Gaya.
The observance featured hymns, religious rituals, prayers, and discourse sessions highlighting Buddha’s teachings. Devotees thronged the Buddhist temple here at Agartala Venuban Vihar and offered prayer to perform their ritual.
Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha attended the festival on Monday and said that Lord Gautam Buddha spread the message of non-violence, love, compassion and peace all over the world. The state government is working for the welfare of the people based on this message of Lord Buddha, he added.
The Chief Minister said that the Buddha Purnima festival is now not limited to Buddhists only, this festival is significant for all peace-loving people of the world.
“The words of Lord Buddha should be applied in all our lives. We should keep our conduct and behaviour in check. Only then will the philosophy of Lord Buddha be effective,” Dr Saha said, adding that India has always believed in the philosophy of peace and non-violence. But if any kind of attack is done on the country, it will be dealt with sternly, he added.
Monks and devotees participated in meditation, chanting, and lamp-lighting ceremonies and special arrangements were made for food distribution to devotees and the underprivileged, embodying compassion and generosity.
