The Maha Kathina Cīvara Dāna Ceremony was observed with solemn devotion beneath the sacred Bodhi Tree at the Mahabodhi Mahāvihāra Temple, Bodhgaya — the holiest site marking the Enlightenment of Lord Buddha.
The auspicious event was graciously sponsored by the Most Venerable Somdet Phra Dhīrañāṇamunī, Deputy Sangharāja of Thailand, together with his devoted disciples. Organised by the Bodhgaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC), the ceremony was graced by venerable members of the Saṅgha, esteemed devotees, and distinguished guests from India, Thailand, and various parts of the world.
The programme commenced with the lighting of ceremonial lamps and a welcome address by Dr. Mahashweta Maharathi, Hony. Secretary, BTMC.
The ceremony included the Five Precept recitation led by the Chief Monk, Bhikkhu Chalinda. The robes were offered to the Ven’ble Sangha by Mrs. Sreetha Thavisin, former Prime Minister of Thailand, followed by Saṅghadāna at the Kalachakra Grounds performed in a spirit of collective generosity and devotion as a sacred act symbolising generosity, purity, and the harmonious bond between the monastic and lay communities.
Mr. Tassapou Bijleveld, Chairman of Thailand Air Asia lighted candle and incense and offered on the Portrait of the Royal Thai Queen Mother, who had passed away recently.
Mr. Kiran Lama, Member, BTMC, proposed the Vote of Thanks, and conveyed heartfelt appreciation to all sponsors, dignitaries, and volunteers for their invaluable support and contributions.
The day concluded in the evening with a grand Light Offering Ceremony of 5000 lamps, illuminating the precincts of the Mahabodhi Temple with radiant peace, devotion, and blessings for all organised for the 9th year, commemorating Buddha’s Dhamma Teachings to his Mother Queen Maya during the 3-months’ Rainy Retreat in Tavatimsa Heaven.