Buddhists observe Prabarana Purnima today

Buddhists across Bangladesh are observing Prabarana Purnima today, Monday, October 6, the second largest religious festival of the community. The full-moon festival marks the conclusion of a three-month-long “Barshabash” (rainy retreat) observed by Buddhist monks.

According to Buddhist belief, the festival purifies both monks and laypersons of sins. The word Prabarana means to refrain from evil deeds and embrace good deeds. Rituals on this day include Buddha puja, Sangha offerings, pindodan, Ashtapariskar dan, Pancha Sheel prayers, Shil observance, lighting lamps, and releasing lanterns.

The day after Prabarana Purnima, Buddhist temples across the country begin preparations for Kathin Chibor Dan, one of their most significant festivals.

Marking the occasion, Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus extended greetings on Saturday, wishing peace and harmony for Buddhists in Bangladesh and around the world. He said Buddha’s teachings could play an important role in overcoming global unrest and establishing peace.

Venerable Sunandapriya, General Secretary of Bangladesh Buddhist Federation, said monks observe Barshabash from Ashadhi Purnima to Ashwin Purnima, staying in one place during this three-month retreat. Today marks the end of that period and is celebrated as Prabarana Purnima.

He added that this is the second largest religious festival of Buddhists, the biggest being Buddha Purnima.

According to the Federation’s schedule, the day began with the hoisting of national and religious flags at 6:30am, followed by breakfast for the monks at 7:10am. Shil observance and Buddha puja were held at 9:30am, pindodan at 11am, and a discussion at 4:25pm. The day’s celebrations will conclude with decorative lighting and a colourful lantern festival at 6:30pm.