Sarnath, 29 July (HS): On the occasion of Ashadha Purnima

and Dhammacakka Pavatthana Day, historic Sarnath reverberated with the

teachings of Lord Buddha and his message of world peace on Wednesday. Uttar

Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya attended the event as the

chief guest, organized jointly by the International Buddhist Confederation

(IBC), New Delhi, and the Central Institute of Advanced Tibetan Studies,

Sarnath.

At the ceremony, Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya

stated that Lord Buddha's Middle Path is the path to world peace, harmony, and

human welfare. He added that the entire world is recognizing the relevance of

Lord Buddha's teachings. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,

the central and Uttar Pradesh governments are continuously working to develop

pilgrimage and heritage sites associated with Lord Buddha, ensuring world-class

facilities for pilgrims from both India and abroad. He stated that the global

interest in Lord Buddha's teachings is continuously growing, and the government

is committed to providing all possible support to the development of Buddhist

sites and religious and cultural events.

The program began with a welcome address by Shartse Khensur

Jangchup Choeden Rinpoche, General Secretary of the International Buddhist

Confederation. Students from the Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies

captivated the audience with their enchanting cultural performances.

It is noteworthy that Ashadha Purnima holds special

significance in Buddhist tradition. It is believed that on this day, seven

weeks after attaining enlightenment, Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon at

Sarnath. In Pali, it is known as the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta and in

Sanskrit, it is known as the Dharmachakra Pravartan Sutra.

Dhammacakkappavattana Day is celebrated annually to commemorate this historic

event.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi