By Our Correspondent
LAHORE: International Vesak Day was celebrated in Pakistan with great reverence, respect and spiritual enthusiasm. Buddha Jayanti/Vesak is one of the most important religious festivals of Buddhism, observed across the world to commemorate the birth, enlightenment and Mahaparinirvana of Gautama Buddha.
The ceremony was held at the historic Dharmarajika Stupa and Taxila Museum under the auspices of the Punjab Government’s Tourism, Archaeology and Museums Department, in line with the vision of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and on the directives of Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb.
The event was hosted by Secretary Tourism, Archaeology and Museums Department Socrat Aman Rana along with Director General Archaeology Punjab Zaheer Abbas Malik. Federal Minister Aurangzeb Khan Khichi attended the ceremony as a special guest.
Ambassadors and diplomatic representatives from different countries also participated, adding an international dimension to the event. Distinguished guests included Ambassador Rita Dhital of Nepal, Ambassador Rongvudhi Virabutr of Thailand, High Commissioner Rear Admiral H.L.A.D.F. Senevirathne of Sri Lanka, Ambassador Pham Anh Tuan of Vietnam, and Ambassador Wunna Han of Myanmar.
During the ceremony, participants visited the historic heritage site, took part in religious rituals and attended special prayer sessions. The site holds extraordinary importance in Buddhist history and is associated with the era of Emperor Ashoka.
The event continued from 5pm to 8pm, including a one-hour joint visit followed by a two-hour conference. Speakers emphasised the importance of using Buddhist cultural heritage for economic growth, sustainable tourism, cultural diplomacy and promotion of global partnerships.
On the occasion, Venerable Anil Shakya from Thailand and Venerable Polpiti Mukalane Pannasiri Thero from Sri Lanka offered special prayers and led spiritual sessions.
It may be noted that the United Nations General Assembly officially recognised International Vesak Day on December 15, 1999.
The ceremony proved to be a practical manifestation of peace, love, tolerance and interfaith harmony, as people belonging to different countries and religions gathered to spread the message of brotherhood and coexistence.
