Cox's Bazar:Prabarana Purnima, the second largest religious festival of Buddhists, has commenced with great enthusiasm and excitement in Cox's Bazar. The festival, which spans three days, has brought a festive atmosphere to the Buddhist monasteries in the area.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the celebration includes Buddha Puja, Shibli Puja, observance of the 'Five Precepts and Eight Precepts,' Karma Desana, meditation practices, prayers, the lighting of thousands of lamps, and the flying of lanterns. On the second day, hundreds of colorful lanterns are set to be flown in the sky. The festival will conclude with the floating of Kalpa ships in Ramu on October 26 and on Cox's Bazar beach on October 27.
The central Mahasangdograi Buddhist Monastery has become a hub of activity, with men and women of the Rakhine community gathering in new attire and bringing quality food to the monastery. The festival is marked by prayers for happiness, peace, and prosperity. This year, around 50 eye-catching pandals have been constructed by various Buddhist monasteries and Rakhine organizations, featuring gorgeously decorated Buddha statues and colorful lighting.
Prabarana Purnima is also being celebrated in different areas including Mojaher Para, Bazarghata, Baidyaghona, and Jadiram Buddhist Monasteries, as well as in Maheshkhali, Ukhia, Chakaria, Ramu, Pekua, Teknaf, and Naikhongchhari. The traditional Aggamedha Kyang and Mahasingdrogi Monasteries in Cox's Bazar town are bustling with devotees and visitors participating in religious rituals and enjoying the festival.
Usen Thoyen, President of the Cox's Bazar Rakhine Unity Sangha, highlighted that the main theme of Prabarana is self-purification and the aspiration for non-violence, equality, friendship, love, and compassion. Mong A Khen, former director of the Cox's Bazar Cultural Center, noted that the festival fosters harmony among people of all faiths and is traditionally held after the Buddhist monks' three-month rain retreat, leading up to the Kathin Chibar Danotsab in the following month.