As the sacred full moon of Ashadha illuminated the evening sky, the spiritual grounds of Sarnath witnessed a grand celebration of Ashadha Purnima—marking Dhammachakra Pravartana Divas, the day when Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment.
The commemoration was organized by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in association with the Ministry of Culture and the Mahabodhi Society of India. The event was held at the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara in Sarnath, attracting esteemed monks, scholars, and devotees from around the world.
Highlights of the Ashadha Purnima Programme
The event began with a silent and reverent parikrama (circumambulation) around the historic Dhamek Stupa, as monks and laypersons paid homage to the Buddha’s teachings. The stupa stood glowing in the twilight, symbolizing the eternal truth of Dhamma.
Ven. Summitananda Thero opened the formal session with a welcome address, followed by heartfelt remarks from Ven. Dieu Tri of Vietnam, who shared insights from the recent Buddha Relic Exposition, where over 17.8 million Vietnamese devotees paid homage.
Wisdom and Harmony Through Global Buddhist Participation
Ven. Wangchuk Dorjee Negi, Vice Chancellor of the Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies, emphasized the deep harmony between Dharma practice and knowledge. He noted how Ashadha Purnima connects key moments of Buddha’s life—his conception, first sermon, and the establishment of the monastic Sangha.
Most Ven. Sumedha Thero from Sri Lanka highlighted the spiritual ties between India and Sri Lanka, expressing gratitude for India’s commitment to Buddhist heritage and interfaith unity.
Conclusion: Reaffirming the Buddha’s Universal Message
Shartse Khensur Jangchup Choeden Rinpoche, IBC Secretary General, concluded the event with a call for global unity and interfaith dialogue to build a peaceful world rooted in compassion. A vote of thanks by Ven. Seelawanso Thero rounded off the evening, echoing the collective reverence of the gathering.
Ashadha Purnima 2025 reaffirmed the relevance of Buddha’s teachings in today’s world, calling all to walk the path of mindfulness, compassion, and wisdom.
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