Group photo at the Shrine Hall of Buddhist Maha Vihara

Earlier today on 18 March, a group of Nalanda leaders and members visited Brickfields Maha Vihara to observe our annual Nalanda Patron’s Day.  Held in conjunction with the birth anniversary of Nalanda’s late spiritual advisor Ven. K. Sri Dhammananda, it is a day to remember and commemorate all teachers and benefactors who have contributed to Nalanda’s education mission.

Executive Secretary Sis. Nandinī Tan led the entourage in paying respects to the stupa of the Late Venerable K. Sri Dhammananda and to the current Abbot of the temple, Ven. Datuk K. Sri Dhammaratana, and to offer lunch dāna to the Sangha members.  Sis. Nandinī shared that the Buddhist practice hinges on the practice of gratitude.  Without gratitude, there can be very little progress in one’s spiritual development.

Starting the day with chanting.

Executive Secretary Sis. Nandinī Tan, who led the entourage, shared that gratitude is one of the most important qualities to be cultivated. Without gratitude, there can be very little spiritual progress.

Paying respects at the stupa of the late Ven. K. Sri Dhammananda.

Paying respects at the stupa of the late Ven. K. Sri Dhammananda.

Paying respects at the stupa of the late Ven. K. Sri Dhammananda.

Circumambulating the stupa three times, a traditional way of showing respect and gratitude to an esteemed individual.

On this day, we express our gratitude to all our benefactors from past to present.  Thank you for all your advice, contributions and support in every way, starting with our very first benefactor the late Ven. K. Sri Dhammananda who bestowed the name “Nalanda” upon us, and for your relentless support in our formation and education mission.  Sadhu anumodana!

Circumambulating the stupa three times, a traditional way of showing respect and gratitude to an esteemed individual.

Paying respects to the Abbot of the temple, Ven. Datuk K. Sri Dhammaratana.

Offering of lunch dāna to Sangha members.

Offering of lunch dāna to Sangha members.

Dedication of merits to our late Spiritual Advisor Ven. K. Sri Dhammananda, and to all our benefactors of past and present.