Photographs by Gan Jia Cheng, Chua Siaw Kim, and Rudy Gan.

A record number of devotees took part in this year’s ‘Sangha Day’ celebrations at Nalanda.

On Sunday 20 November, devotees thronged Nalanda Centre in Sri Serdang to participate in the ‘Sangha Day’ celebrations.  This annual observance day is to honour the significance and contributions of the monastic community towards the preservation and propagation of Buddha-Dhamma.

Bro. Tan spoke about the meaning of ‘Sangha’ and its pivotal role in Buddha-Sāsana.

Since early morning, volunteers and devotees started to arrive at the Centre to participate in various activities.  The programme began officially at 9am with meditation, offerings and chanting.  Nalanda founder Bro. Tan addressed the congregation with a brief introduction to the meaning of ‘Sangha’ and its pivotal role in Buddha-Sāsana.  The congregation then enjoyed two Dhamma talks – Achariya S. Vijaya delivering one in English, and Sis. Nandini delivering another in Mandarin.

After the talks was the programme highlight of the day – the offering of robes and requisites to Sangha members.  Following Nalandian tradition, four bhikkhus were invited for this occasion – two monks each from the two main vihāra in Kuala Lumpur.

The first robe and requisite pack was offered on behalf of all members, devotees and benefactors.

Senior teacher Achariya Vijaya was given the honour to be the ‘first person’ to offer robes and requisite.

According to custom, Nalanda President and Deputy President were next in line to represent all members and supporters to offer robes.

Also in accordance to tradition, the first group of offerors comprised the heads of Nalanda education and management, who represented all Nalandian teachers, members, benefactors, volunteers and supporters. They were followed by other devotees in batches.

Performing good from young. Anumodana!

Devotees lining-up at the far-end to wait for their turns to offer robes.

It was a joyous occasion for everyone who attended the ‘Sangha Day’ observance at Nalanda Centre, as many people felt they learned something important while participating in the celebrations here.  It was not just an occasion to perform rituals, but a ground for spiritual training as well.

We thank the venerable monks for their kind presence to accept our offerings, and all donors and devotees who have offered robes, requisites, and donations to the Sangha fund.  We also thank all organisers, hosts and volunteers for your tireless effort in making the occasion a true cause for celebration.  Namo Sanghaya!

Devotees also get the opportunity to offer food to venerable monks during lunch.

Bro. Tan representing the congregation in dedicating merits to the world.  Sadhu anumodana.

NOTE :

Devotees will have another opportunity to experience the joy of offering robes and requisites this Sunday (27 November) at NEO Centre Happy Garden, Kuala Lumpur.  The ceremony will begin at 9.00am.  All are welcome.