Sarnath was awash with colour and devotion yesterday as thousands of Buddhist followers gathered to witness a grand procession of Lord Buddha’s sacred relics, accompanied by Sri Lankan music and cultural performances.
The event marked the third day of the 94th anniversary celebrations of the Mulgandha Kuti Vihar Temple, organised by the Mahabodhi Society of India. The procession began at 12:30 p.m. under the leadership of Bhikkhu R. Sumitta Nanda Thero, head monk of the temple.
At its heart was a beautifully adorned elephant carrying the relics of a revered Vietnamese Buddhist monk. Leading the way through the historic lanes of Sarnath, the elephant was followed by a vehicle bearing a statue of Lord Buddha in the Dharma Chakra posture — a symbol of peace and enlightenment.
Three chariots carrying Vietnamese devotees joined the procession, surrounded by thousands of participants waving the Panchsheel flag and showering flowers. The atmosphere was charged with spiritual energy, as traditional Sri Lankan instruments filled the air with rhythmic beats and chants of “Buddham Sharanam Gachhami.”
The fusion of Vietnamese reverence and Sri Lankan musical heritage created a uniquely pan-Asian celebration of Buddhist unity. Organisers said the event was designed to honour the legacy of Lord Buddha while fostering cross-cultural harmony among followers from across the region.
Sarnath, one of Buddhism’s holiest sites, holds special significance as the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment. Yesterday’s procession reaffirmed its role as a living centre of faith and pilgrimage.
As the celebrations continue, devotees and visitors alike are expected to gather for further rituals and cultural programmes, reinforcing Sarnath’s enduring spiritual resonance.
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