Holistic Education for Integral Human Development
Faith and devotion at Heritage Procession
Faith and devotion at Heritage Procession
The stately sedan borne carefully by devotees, youths and students.
On the evening of Buddha Day, Monday 12 May, the community came together at Sri Serdang for the highlight of Wesak observance – the Heritage Procession. Continuing Emperor Asoka’s legacy, once a year, the Buddha-rupam was conveyed on a wooden sedan to the harmonious beating of drums and gongs, escorted by colourful parasols and followed closely by devotees holding candle-lights.
In the early evening, Ven. B. Dheerananda Thera and Ven. Dr. K Gnanawimala Thera passed the light from the first altar at Nalanda – the Sri Dharma Hall, to the masses symbolising the propagation of the Dhamma. Devotees maintained devotion to our Teacher the Buddha, as they walked gently and calmly exuding peace and goodwill to all beings.
Chanting the Jayamangala Gatha before the procession starts.
Devotees look on reflectively and also in gratitude to the Buddha.
38 Blessings are part of the procession, which help to impart the teachings to the public.
Let us continue to create moments of calm and peace in our daily lives, and send thoughts of loving-kindness to ourselves, those around us and to all sentient beings. May we cultivate this wholesome practice in our lives as we walk along the spiritual path. Sadhu.
Upon the completion of the procession, venerable monks shower devotees with blessings.
Nalanda leaders briefing venerable monks on the flow at the altar.
Chanting by venerable monks before the flame is passed to the lamp bearers.
Lighting the lamp of the lamp bearers.
Using the same flame, the monks light nine candles at the Main Altar.
Chanting before the procession starts.
Passing the flame to Ach. S. Vijaya, who then passes it on to the masses.
Passing the flame gently and with care.
Passing the light joyfully.
Dhamma School students also receiving the light.
Carrying the Buddha-rupam carefully and mindfully.
Families come together for the procession.
Free School students with their family.
Passing the light to more people as the procession passed the community around Nalanda Centre.
Throughout the day, devotees came to pay their respects at the altar and participate in the programmes.
Nalanda leaders and devotees thanked venerables monks for their support.
Joyfully preparing for the procession.
Hosts for the evening include Bro. Ivan, student of the Dhamma School.
Mass Food Offering before the procession.