The 40th Swargapuri (Byuhachakra) festival and Buddhist grand conference were held in a festive atmosphere at Pragya Mitra Bon Bihar in North Mithachhari of Ramu, Cox’s Bazar.
The day-long event, held on Friday, drew hundreds of Buddhist monks and thousands of devotees from different parts of the country, creating a strong sense of harmony and unity.
The programme began early in the morning with a procession and Buddha worship. The day featured a range of religious rituals, including Ashtaparishkar, Mahasanghadan, a religious discussion, and Pindadan.
The conference was held in two sessions under the chairmanship of Headman Dhungripara Buddhist Bihar’s principal U. Achaba Mahathero and with Chief Guest Member of Parliament Lutfor Rahman Kazal.
He stated that the traditional festival embodies the region’s unwavering dedication to communal harmony, a value that must endure in the future.
Special guests included Jowarianala Union BNP President Golam Kabir Sowdagar and General Secretary Enamul Haque.
Prominent monks, including Karunashree Mahathero, Gyanendriya Mahathero, Dharmamitra Mahathero, and K. Sri Jyotishen Mahathero, delivered religious sermons.
In the afternoon, the Swargapuri structure was inaugurated, followed by a special prayer session in the evening for world peace. Prayers were also said for the late religious leaders Pragya Mitra Mahathero and Saramitra Mahathero, as well as for the country’s welfare.
The programme was conducted by Pragya Binoy Thero and Titu Barua. The organisers expressed gratitude to the administration and all those concerned for their support in successfully holding the event. The festival concluded that night with a Buddhist cultural program.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Courtesy
