History of Buddhism; history of Nalanda; history or heritage-related topics.
After the British took over the administration of Kedah in 1911, colonial surveyors were surprised to discover many remains of stone and brick temple structures in the state which showed Indian influence, dating from as early as the 5th century CE. These antiquities were scattered in an area extending from the southern foothills of Gunung Jerai (Kedah Peak) to Merbok River in Kuala Muda District. This 225 km² expanse of land is known today as the Bujang Valley – and it is by far the richest archaeological site discovered in Malaysia.
Read more‘International Nurses Day’ is observed on 12 May every year; the date was chosen because it was the birthday of Florence Nightingale (1820 – 1910). In the past, it was an occasion that came and went without much notice. But under the shadows of a global pandemic this year, it is finally celebrated with the recognition it deserves – with significant appreciation and gratitude for the toils and sacrifices of nurses worldwide.
Read moreVesakhā full-moon is the auspicious ‘Buddha Day’ which commemorates three important events in the Life of our Great Teacher – His birth in the year 623 BCE; His Enlightenment in 588 BCE; and His Parinibbāna in 543 BCE. ‘Buddha Day’ on 7 May 2020 also marks the beginning of a new Buddhist Year, or more commonly expressed as Buddhist Era (B.E.) 2564. But how exactly do you derive the Year 2564?
Read moreIn this period of great upheaval for humanity, the deep serenity and tranquility of the Buddha’s image provides solace, hope and peace to troubled minds. We share with you an article published by CNN on 23 April 2020, titled “These ancient images of the Buddha are more timely than you think”.
Read moreFrom 14 to 28 December 2019, 68 pilgrims embarked on ‘Buddhayatra’, a spiritual journey to India and Nepal led by Nalanda founder Bro. Tan. A ‘Buddhayatra’ is not a sight-seeing tour but a journey of faith with insightful learning, reflection, and spiritual growth, as we retrace the path taken by our Enlightened Teacher 26 centuries ago.
Read moreOn Saturday 2 November, students of BPS 403 Higher Certificate in Buddhist Studies presented their much anticipated team assignments to course lecturers and peers. The 11 teams had five weeks to research the development of Buddhism in their chosen Southeast Asian country and prepare their presentations as part of the course assessment.
Read moreOn 14 – 16 September, over 120 students from BPS403 Higher Certificate in Buddhist Studies and Dhamma School for Adults embarked on a study tour to Bujang Valley, Kedah. The entourage was led by Nalanda founder Bro. Tan to develop a better understanding of Kedah’s rich history through its archaeological and historical sites.
Read moreToday is the 100th birth anniversary of the late Venerable Dr. Kirinde Sri Dhammananda Nāyaka Mahā Thero (1918 – 2006), Sanghanāyaka Thera of Malaysia and Singapore, and Spiritual Adviser to Nalanda Buddhist Society. Nalandians humbly pay tribute to his immeasurable contributions to the development of Malaysian Buddhism, and his invaluable teachings for our understanding and appreciation of Buddha-Dhamma.
Read moreLeading Buddhist federations in Malaysia came together to celebrate the 60th anniversary of our nation’s independence in a meaningful way – by organising the “National Conference on Buddhist Civilization” from 15 to 17 September 2017, in Sungai Petani. The unique gathering of 130 Buddhist leaders from all traditions aimed at spotlighting the long history of Buddhist presence in this country, especially in northern Peninsular Malaysia.
Read moreDr. Ranjit Singh Malhi; Source: ‘The Star’, in his Letter to the Editor.
HISTORY is a factual account of significant events in the past that have shaped present-day society and the nation. It enables us to understand how today’s society and nations evolved.
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