Group photo of members, devotees and guests for the Dhammacakka Day Observance and Samaggi Day.

On Sunday 26 July, Nalanda joyfully welcomed members, devotees and guests for the Dhammacakka Day Observance and Samaggi Day, featuring a Special Intra-Buddhist Dialogue held in conjunction with the 20th anniversary of the passing of our late Spiritual Adviser, Ven. K. Sri Dhammananda.  The gathering honoured his enduring legacy as an exemplary Buddhist leader who dedicated his life to fostering harmony, mutual respect and understanding across Buddhist traditions and religions.

The morning service began with the chanting of the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, setting a serene and uplifting atmosphere.  In his Samaggi Day address, Bro. Charlie Teng, Deputy President of Nalanda Buddhist Society, likened a united Buddhist community to a flourishing forest, reminding everyone that harmony is strengthened when we appreciate one another’s unique strengths while supporting one another in learning, practice and service.

Appreciation to late spiritual advisor – Ven. K Sri Dhammanda.

Nlalanda leaders briefing venerable panellists at the reception room.

Cultivation of the mind through practice of meditation.

A highlight of the day was the Special Intra-Buddhist Dialogue organised by Nalanda Institute Malaysia featuring Ven. U Paññāsami (慧主尊者) of the Theravāda tradition, Ven. Chang Zhao (常藻法师) of the Mahāyāna tradition, and Ven. Ji Xun (继薰法师) of the Vajrayāna tradition and moderator, Bro. Tong Siong Yeow.  The venerable panellists shared insights into their respective Dhammadūta efforts, contemporary challenges, opportunities for growth, and the thoughtful use of emerging technologies in propagating the Buddha’s teachings.

Despite the different traditions, all three reaffirmed the common foundation of the Buddha’s teaching – the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path, while emphasising the cultivation of dāna, sīla and bhāvanā as essential to wisdom and liberation.  Practitioners are encouraged to continually deepen their self-cultivation, purify the mind, and develop wisdom, recognising that each of us must walk the path of practice for ourselves.

We rejoice in this rare and meaningful gathering, which embodied the spirit of Samaggi through mutual respect, joyful fellowship and shared commitment to preserving the Buddha Sāsana for the welfare and happiness of many.  Sādhu!

Offering of items at the start of Sunday Service.

Everyone participated in the harmonious chanting.

Bro. Charlie Teng, Deputy President of Nalanda Buddhist Society, giving his Samaggi Day message.

Performance of Buddhist Hymns.

Special Intra-Buddhist Dialogue featuring Ven. U Paññāsami (慧主尊者) of the Theravāda tradition, Ven. Chang Zhao (常藻法师) of the Mahāyāna tradition, and Ven. Ji Xun (继薰法师) of the Vajrayāna tradition.

Everyone was enjoying the topics discussed in the dialogue.

This special Intra-Buddhist Dialogue was very well received.

Active participation during the Q&A session.

This dialogue was moderated by Bro. Tong Siong Yeow.

Presentation of token of appreciation to the venerable panellists.

Offering of lunch dana.

Everyone participated in the wholesome activity.

Nalanda leaders welcomed venerable panellists.

Group photo with Ven. Chang Zhao (常藻法师) from Dharma Drum Mountain Malaysia (马来西亚法鼓山).

Respectfully sending off Ven. Chang Zhao (常藻法师).