Buddha Gaya, November 10, 2024: The Maha Bodhi Society of India successfully organized a two-day Kathina Chivara Dana ceremony at its Buddha Gaya Centre on November 9th and 10th, 2024. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from hundreds of devotees, including representatives from various Buddhist countries, alongside venerable monks from international Buddhist monasteries in and around Buddha Gaya.
Significance of the Kathina Chivara Dana Ceremony
The Kathina Chivara Dana ceremony is one of the most sacred and ancient Buddhist traditions. It marks the conclusion of the three-month Vassa retreat, during which monks observe a period of intensive meditation and spiritual practice. The ceremony involves offering Kathina robes (Chivara) to the monastic Sangha, symbolizing the generosity and devotion of the lay community. This act of giving fosters spiritual merit, strengthens the bond between the laypeople and the monastic community, and sustains the monastic tradition.
The term Kathina refers to the wooden frame traditionally used to sew robes, highlighting the spirit of communal effort and dedication. The ceremony is considered a rare and special opportunity for devotees to accumulate great spiritual merit through their acts of generosity.
The ceremony began on November 9th with a grand Kathina Chivara procession, starting at the iconic 80-foot Buddha statue and concluding at the sacred Mahabodhi Temple. Hundreds of devotees participated in the procession, carrying the Kathina robes with reverence.
In the evening, a Pirith Chanting session was conducted, during which venerable monks recited sacred Buddhist scriptures. Devotees listened attentively, reflecting on the teachings of the Buddha and seeking blessings for spiritual progress and well-being.
On November 10th, the ceremony focused on the offering of Sangha Dana and Kathina Chivara to the venerable monks. Devotees presented the freshly sewn robes to the Sangha as an act of profound generosity. The Sangha Dana, which includes offering food and other requisites, further emphasized the interconnectedness of the monastic and lay communities.
Monks from international Buddhist monasteries in and around Buddha Gaya were invited to participate, enriching the spiritual significance of the event and fostering global Buddhist unity.
The Maha Bodhi Society of India expresses its heartfelt gratitude to all participants, volunteers, and supporters for their contributions to the success of this sacred event. By preserving and participating in such ancient traditions, the community strengthens the values of compassion, generosity, and unity, which lie at the heart of Buddhist teachings.
