On Wednesday, 12 June, devotees once again filled the Shrine Hall at Nalanda Centre for the first group meditation of Gimhana Retreat. Bro. Tan guided everyone in loving-kindness meditation, followed by a quiet sitting as we observed our breath mindfully. Despite the day’s hustle and bustle, most meditators experienced a sense of peace after the 45 minute session.
Read moreEveryone was all-ears as Bro. Tan shared the interesting and insightful story about the snake. As it was shedding its skin, this 12-feet long King Cobra snake was very distressed and undergoing a big change. Half-blind, mad with discomfort, and in the heat of the high noon sun, it crossed the hot tar road not once or twice, but three times. This was the sight that Bro. Tan came across one day on the road.
Read moreThe Nalanda Secretariat today published the first issue of a newsletter specially catering for the needs of Nalanda's 70 office-bearers and officers. 'Nalandian', the newsletter, carries such contents as Founder Bro.Tan's message, directives from the leadership, news about policies, practices and culture. This newsletter aims to provide officers with general guidelines, management policies, and to share crucial information. Nalandian officers are encouraged to make full use of this additional facility to plan better programmes and events for the community.
Read moreTo mark the auspicious start of the Gimhana Period (8 June – 22 July), Nalandian devotees led by Bro. Vincent Lee organized a Pindacāra this morning at the Jalan Besar market in Seri Kembangan. Three venerable monks accepted our invitation to go on alms-round, providing a welcoming sight and bringing much joy to the early market-goers. As Nalanda has been organizing Pindacāra quite frequently at the place, the crowd there is generally accustomed to giving, and gladly came forward with their alms-offerings.
Read moreFor seven weeks after the Buddha’s Enlightenment on Wesak full-moon in May, He contemplated on the Dhamma with His perfectly clear faculty of comprehension. Then, He travelled for seven days from Bodhgaya to Sarnath, where He preached the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta on the Asalha full-moon (Dhamma Day) in July.
Read moreNalanda organizes 3 special retreats annually – the ‘Hemanta’ in January, ‘Gimhana’ in June-July, and ‘Vassana’ in October-November. Each of these 3 retreats focuses on different aspects of personal, communal and spiritual growth.
Read more'Bhikkhu', the Pāli word for monk, literally means one who goes on alms. On Saturday, 1 June, a team of Nalandians and volunteers gathered at the NEO Centre in Happy Garden early in the morning for chanting and invocation. Having taken refuge in the Three Jewels and undertaken to observe the Five Precepts properly, with renewed aspirations, the team set out to the Taman O.U.G. market and prepared to commence the Pindacāra (alms-round).
Read moreA most inspiring ‘Dhamma Appreciation Night’ was recently held on 24 May to celebrate the Wesak full-moon Buddha Day. The dynamic performances that evening delighted the audience with its youthful zest and brilliant comedic effects. The night’s 3 performances were specially presented by a team of dedicated young Nalandians, who were ably guided by Nalanda Institute’s Director, Mr. Vijaya Samarawickrama.
Read moreWesak full-moon Buddha Day was celebrated for the first time at NEO Centre Johor Bahru on Saturday, 25 May. More than 200 devotees packed the Centre to attend the pūja and Dhamma sharing by Nalandians.
Read moreThe Wesak Programme at Nalanda began with a Lighting of Lamp on Thursday, 23 May. Thence began a series of wholesome and meaningful programmes, including Dhamma talks, Pindacāra (monks going on alms-round), a Mass Taking Refuge Ceremony, and the highlight on Wesak night – the Heritage Procession.
Read more