Bro. Tan chatting with Ven. Siriwimala Thero (right), a venerable bhikkhuni and samaneri.

On Thursday 7 July, Nalanda founder Bro. Tan and Sis. Nandinī paid respects at the Sri Lanka Buddhist Temple in Sentul where the 2nd Theravāda Samaneri Novitiate Programme was being held.  More than 30 ladies ordained temporarily in order to experience the joys of monastic life.

The 10-day novitiate programme was conducted by Theravāda bhikkhunis from Vietnam, and assisted by Ven. Bhikkhu Dr. Dhammapala and several monks at the temple.  The programme concluded joyfully with Pindacāra (alms-round) at the temple vicinity on Sunday, 10 July. Sadhu anumodana!