Bodh Gaya: Buddhist monks pray for world peace

Bodh Gaya (Bihar), Nov 8: Buddhist monks from across the country participated in a sacred ceremony at Bodh Gaya, one of the most important pilgrim centre of the Buddhists, and prayed for world peace.

The monks made an offering of 500 meters of cloth to Lord Buddha and also prayed for world peace at Bodhgaya, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Chanting hymns, the monks carried the long sheet of cloth in a ceremony called 'Cheeva Dan' (offering of monk's robe) on Friday, Nov 7. "During Mahayana, Lord Buddha was covered with 500 meters of cotton. Keeping that in mind we have organised this procession," said Pragyadeep, treasurer of All India Bhikchu Sangh.

"It is a sacred occasion and will give Buddhists an opportunity to participate in the ceremony," added Pragyadeep.

The sacred cloth was later cut into pieces and distributed among the devotees.

Lord Buddha attained enlightenment while doing penance under a Bodhi tree (Tree of Enlightenment) near a temple in Bodh Gaya.

Lord Buddha, founder of Buddhism was born a prince at Lumbini in Nepal over 2,600 years ago.

ANI