Bangkok: The Department of Religious Affairs, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, organized a grand merit-making and alms-giving ceremony to celebrate World Vesak Day, under the theme "Lighting 1 million lamps, reciting 1 million prayers as an offering to the Buddha."
According to Thai News Agency, the event took place at Wat Benchamabophit Dusitwanaram in the Dusit District of Bangkok, where Phra Tham Wachirathibodi, the Chief Monk of Region 17 and Abbot of the temple, presided over the religious ceremony. Mr. Prasop Riangngern, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, led the chanting of Buddhist prayers and the alms-giving ceremony involving 29 monks. The ceremony saw participation from Mr. Chaiyapol Suk-iam, Director-General of the Department of Religious Affairs, executives from the Ministry of Culture, representatives from various Buddhist organizations, and numerous Buddhists.
Mr. Prasop Riangngern highlighted that Visakha Puja Day has been recognized as an important international day by the United Nations since 1999. It commemorates three significant events in the life of the Buddha: his birth, enlightenment, and death (parinirvana). The event aimed to preserve cultural traditions and apply Buddhist teachings in daily life. Participants engaged in various activities, including chanting, offering alms, and paying homage to sacred sites and objects. They also had the chance to experience cultural demonstrations and purchase local food products.
The ceremony featured several highlights, such as a "Garden of Lights of Faith" beautifully adorned with lights at Bodhimandala, the Seven Great Places. Evening activities included prayers, chanting, meditation, a candlelit procession, and the lighting of one million lamps and recitations. The event also included listening to sermons celebrating royal faith throughout the night.
The Permanent Secretary emphasized that similar activities were organized nationwide, with cooperation from provincial cultural offices, the Sangha, government agencies, and the private sector. The "Lighting 1 Million Lamps, Chanting 1 Million Prayers in Homage to the Buddha on World Vesak Day" campaign was launched in nine key provinces, including Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phrae, and Phetchabun. This initiative aimed to create a symbol of wisdom and faith across the country.
Aligned with the Ministry of Culture's policy, the event encouraged participants to wear Thai fabrics or local attire, promoting Thai identity and cultural pride. The Permanent Secretary concluded that the event exemplifies the collective effort of Thai Buddhists to uphold Buddhism and cultural heritage, symbolizing wisdom, mental strength, and unity in Thai society.