22 Oct., Buddhagaya,.

Today in the Mahabodhi Temple premises under the auspices of Bodhgaya Temple Management Committee the sacred Robe-Offering Ceremony was arranged in a befitting manner - in which about 350 Buddhist monks were offered monk robes - Civara and community meal.

This special ceremony of robe-offering is held in the Theravadin tradition of Buddhism after completion of the Four months' Rain Retreat by the monks. This festivity is a ceremony of making great offerings on part of the lay community to the Order of monks.

On this auspicious occasion the renowned Korean Buddhist monk Rev. Pom Yun Sunim the president of JoinTogether Society was accorded felicitation on his being conferred with the prestigious Magsasay Award-2002. Speaking on the occasion, the District Magistrate Sri Brijesh Mehrotra assured all kinds of supports to the pilgrims and sponsors, who wish to contribute to the prosperity and sanctity of the temple premises. The Secretary of Bodhgaya Temple Management Committee, Sri Kalicharan Singh Yadav in his welcome Address said that the efforts pious devotees like the chief sponsor of the this ceremony Upasikå Ms. Rachanikanjanachatree the religious activities receive good momentum. The inspirator of the ceremony the Thai monk Ven. Dr. B. Khemananda said we have started the preparation for the next Robe-offering Ceremony on greater scale. Dr. Khemananda said this will help promote international peace and social harmony because its has the spirit of charity.

The Bhikkhu-in-Charge Bhikkhu Bodhipala said that this is the first Kathina Ceremony held in the Mahabodhi Mahavihara premises and the pious donor receives immense satisfaction, Peace and merit of charity at this holiest spot. Most Ven. Dr. Phra Videshbodhikhun gave panchasila and Punyanumodana on this occasion.

On this occasion the honorable members of the Bodhgaya Temple Management Committee Dr. Ramswarup Singh and Mr. Mangal Subba were present. The meeting was conducted by Sri Kailash Prasad.