Patna, The Buddhist Society of India, under the leadership of Vice President Shrinath Singh Bauddh, commemorated the 2359th birth anniversary of the great Emperor Ashoka with grand celebrations at Gautam Buddha Vihar, Patna.
The program began with a vibrant Shobha Yatra (procession) starting from Jagdev Path, Jakkanpur, and Boring Road, which was warmly received upon its arrival at Gautam Buddha Vihar. The ceremonial inauguration was conducted by Bhante Pragya Deep Mahathero with the chanting of Buddha Vandana, Trisharan, and Panchsheel Patha.
The chief guest of the event, the Trust Chairman of the organization, Chandra Bodhi Patil, emphasized in his address that true world peace can only be achieved by following the path shown by Emperor Ashoka. Special guest Shankar Rao Dhegade echoed this sentiment, stating that the growing atmosphere of hostility and conflict in the world can be eradicated through the teachings of the Buddha.
While presiding over the event, Vice President Shrinath Singh Bauddh highlighted the distinction between Dhamma and Dharma, stating that "Dharma cannot govern Dhamma; rather, one must adopt Dhamma to guide Dharma."
Prominent personalities who also addressed the gathering included Arvind Kumar Tiwari, Principal of Shakyamuni College Bodh Gaya; B.D. Sujat, National Executive President of Samta Sainik Dal; Braj Kishore Singh Kushwaha; Suresh Gautam; Dagi Subhash Kumar; Vinod Singh Kushwaha; D.N.C. Singh Azad; Gopal Ji Singh; Ashok Kumar Maurya; Kameshwar Kumar; Arun Kumar; and Rajkumar Ambedkar.
The guests were warmly welcomed by the State President of the Society, Buddh Sevak Prasad, who expressed gratitude to all attendees for their participation in the event honoring the legacy of Emperor Ashoka.