Bodh Gaya: In a vibrant display of devotion and international cultural bonding, a 60-member Japanese delegation from Tokyo visited the sacred Mahabodhi Temple to offer special prayers for global peace, human well-being, and prosperity.
The visiting group, affiliated with the Tokyo-based spiritual organisation ‘Peace of Life’, was led by prominent Zen Master Ken. The members undertook a disciplined, peaceful foot march from Hotel Sujata to the revered temple complex, walking in a neat ceremonial procession. Upon arrival, the delegates bowed before the statue of Lord Buddha inside the sanctum sanctorum.
Special Prayers and Sacred Offerings
During the ceremonies inside the inner sanctum, the delegation performed sacred circumambulation (parikrama) and presented ceremonial monk robes (cheevar) to 55 Buddhist monks. A ceremonial blessing was also performed for the annual commemorative publication titled ‘The Buddha’.
Spreading the Message of Peace Globally
Highlighting the significance of the occasion, local Bodh Gaya resident and entrepreneur Rahul Agrawal stated that as part of the sacred Maha Kathina observances, robes have been offered to over 30 monks locally, with additional sets set to be presented to monks across various Buddhist monasteries in Japan.
Members of the delegation shared that paying homage at the seat of enlightenment provided them with profound inner calm and spiritual rejuvenation. Upon returning home to Japan, the group plans to actively spread Lord Buddha’s core teachings of peace, compassion, and non-violence.
