KATHMANDU, JULY 21

The Embassy of India in Kathmandu organized a special event today to mark the auspicious occasion of Ashadha Purnima.

Representatives from various Buddhist sects and monasteries in Nepal participated in the celebration.

Ashadha Purnima commemorates the moment when Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon to his initial five ascetic disciples at Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh. This sermon, which took place after Lord Buddha's enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, introduced the 'Four Noble Truths' and the 'Noble Eightfold Path'. This day is also recognized as the 'First Turning of the Wheel of Dharma', according to a statement issued by the Indian Embassy in Nepal.

The celebrations featured ceremonial prayers conducted by the Theravada Sangha, Mahayana Sangha, and Vajrayana Sangha. These were followed by the recitation and dedication of prayers from the Buddhist Sutras, the release stated.

Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM), Prasanna Shrivastava, highlighted the profound significance of Lord Buddha's teachings, emphasizing that the sacred Buddhist sites in both India and Nepal exemplify the shared cultural heritage between the two nations.

DCM Shrivastava also underscored that Buddhism has long served as a unifying force between India and Nepal, fostering enduring ties over centuries, the embassy added.