Exchanging greetings with members of the Buddhist community at a reception marking their second largest festival – the sacred “Prabarona Purnima and Kathin Chibar Dan (yellow robe offering ceremony)” – President Abdul Hamid asked all to stand by each other in sharing the joy of festival.
The reception was arranged at Bangabhaban on Saturday.
“The Ukraine-Russia war has destabilized the world economy. It is having a negative impact on the socio-economic sector of different countries including our country. We need to stand by each other during these difficult times. We should see to it that none of our neighbors, friends and relatives are deprived of the joy of the festival,” he said.
The President said that Buddha has shown the way to free mankind from violence, exploitation and deprivation. He inspired people to follow righteous thought, righteous life and righteous path. In the current context, this thought of Buddha is very important to create a peaceful and exploitation-free society.
“As a leader of the Buddhist community, you are accepted by the common people as a gentleman,” he added.
Hamid hoped the Buddhist community will fully utilize that trust and faith to build a happy, prosperous and peaceful Bangladesh. It will play an important role in spreading the noble teachings and ideals of Buddha among everyone.
He also inspired to live an honest and beautiful life refraining from all kinds of dishonest activities and build ourselves as worthy citizens of the country through good deeds.
Hamid said that all must be determined to uphold our reputation and heritage as a liberal and secular country.
State Minister for Religious Affairs Faridul Haque Khan and secretaries concerned to the President were present on the occasion.
Earlier, the Buddhist religious leaders greeted President Hamid by presenting a flower bouquet to him.
Source: United News of Bangladesh