Dhaka:Prabarana Purnima, considered the second largest religious festival for Buddhists, is being observed in the capital and throughout Bangladesh with due solemnity and traditional enthusiasm.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the festival, also known as Ashwini Purnima, marks the conclusion of a three-month period of seclusion by monks for self-edification and atonement. This is followed by a month-long ceremony where sermons are preached, and yellow robes are offered, beginning the day after Purnima.
The event is celebrated with various activities, including the release of candle-lit air balloons made of colored paper, known as "fanush," into the sky, which is a chief attraction. Celebrations take place in all monasteries and involve hoisting flags, chanting sacred verses, breaking of fasting, mass prayers, blood donations, and other religious rituals.
In Dhaka, major congregations are held at prominent sites such as Dharmarajik Bouddha Bihar and the International Buddhist Monastery at Merul Badda, among others. In Chattogram, ceremonies occur at various temples including Nandankanan Buddhist Temple and Shakkymuni Mohasashan Bouddha Bihar. Special prayers for national and global peace are also conducted.
For the smooth celebration of the festival, law enforcement agencies have been deployed around temples and monasteries throughout the city and districts.