The Centenary Celebration of Bhante Urgyen Sangharakshita, founder of the Triratna Bauddha Mahasangha, was grandly and joyfully held at Sangamam Mahal, Krishna Nagar, Puducherry, organized by the Dhammamitras of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Dhammamitra P. Chandrasekar, who warmly greeted and united all the participants. Dhammamitra J. Punitaseelan served as the Master of Ceremony for the event.
The inaugural lamp was lit by Dhammamitra R.V. Roopadevi, formally marking the beginning of the celebration. This was followed by a 30-minute Metta Bhavana (loving-kindness meditation) led by Dhammamitra V. Gowthamdas.
Subsequently, Dhammamitra C. Sekari lit the lamp and conducted the Trisarana, Panchasila, and the Positive Precepts. Dhammamitra M. Sukumar led the Tiratna Vandana, while Dhammamitra Jerina lit the lamp and performed the Buddha Puja and chanted the Karaniya Metta Sutta in Pali.
Dhammamitra Sa.Manimaran then delivered a Dhamma talk, highlighting the life and contributions of Bhante Sangharakshita in honour of his Centenary.
This was followed by floral offerings and homage to the Buddha, the Bodhisattvas, Pandit Ayothee Thass, Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and Bhante Sangharakshita, accompanied by the reverential recitation: “Muni, Muni, Mahamuni, Sakyamuni, Sadhu.”
Towards the conclusion, Dhammamitra E. Kalaivanan expressed gratitude in the Vote of Thanks, and the programme ended with the recitation of the Dhammapalana Gatha.
Finally, Dhammamitras Jerina and J. Punitaseelan offered Dana (a meal) to all the participants, marking the completion of the event with generosity and merit.
Jai Bhim! Namo Buddhaya!
