Tripura: Fruit sweets distributed to cancer patients ahead of Buddha Jayanti
May 22, 2024
Agartala (Tripura) [India], May 22 : Ahead of the occasion of 2568th Buddha Jayanti, the senior Buddhist monk Ben Khemachara spearheaded a charitable initiative to distribute fruit sweets among the cancer patients at the Atal Bihari Regional Cancer Centre in Tripura's Agartala.
This was organised on Wednesday under the auspices of Buddha Mandir, Benuban Vihar. The event, marking the birth, enlightenment, and death anniversary of Lord Buddha, aimed to spread joy and compassion among those battling cancer. The distribution of fruit sweets symbolised not just a festive gesture but also an expression of support and solidarity with the patients and their families.
Patients and staff at the cancer centre expressed their gratitude for the thoughtful gesture. "It is acts of kindness like these that bring hope and positivity to our lives," said one patient.
Ben Khemachara emphasised the significance of Buddha Jayanti as a time for reflection and community service. "On this auspicious day, we honour the teachings of Lord Buddha by extending love and care to those in need. It is our duty to support and uplift each other, especially those who are enduring great hardships," he said.
The initiative by Buddha Mandir Sthiti Benuban Vihar not only celebrated the spirit of Buddha Jayanti but also highlighted the enduring values of compassion and altruism central to Buddhist philosophy. The event concluded with prayers for the well-being and speedy recovery of all patients at the centre.
Notably, Buddha Jayanti will be celebrated on Thursday (May 23). Buddha Jayanti, also known as Buddha Purnima, is celebrated by Buddhists worldwide. On this day, people cherish Buddha's life and teachings.
Along with India, this festival is celebrated with great fervour in Southeast Asia, including Thailand, China, Cambodia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Tibet.