In celebration of the 73rd birth anniversary of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun, the 10th King of the Chakri Dynasty of Thailand, 73 small Buddha statues were distributed at the Mahabodhi Sambodhi Retreat Centre on September 23.

The event was organized by the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre (MIMC) in collaboration with the Royal Thai Embassy and the Wat Thai Royal Temple in Bodhgaya.
The Buddha statues were presented to esteemed dignitaries throughout Ladakh, conveying a message of peace, compassion, and mutual respect. Three statues, sent directly by His Majesty the King of Thailand, were presented to the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, the Ladakh Gonpa Association, and the Ladakh Buddhist Association, with their respective Presidents receiving them in person.

Bhikkhu Sanghasena, Founder President and Spiritual Director, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Most Ven. Phra Dhambodhivong for choosing Ladakh for this significant ceremony. He emphasized the profound and enduring spiritual connection between the Buddhist communities of India and Thailand. Sanghasena acknowledged the dedication of the Buddhists of Thailand in diligently preserving the sacred teachings of Lord Buddha, especially during a time when these teachings had gradually faded in their birthplace, India. He noted that the unwavering commitment of Thai Buddhists has played a crucial role in the revival of Buddhism in India, restoring its spiritual legacy to its land of origin.

Ven. Sanghasena articulated the deep respect for Buddhism that exists in both India and Thailand, underscoring its essential role in fostering peace amid global challenges such as climate change and social conflict. He highlighted how the teachings of Buddhism provide a moral compass and a framework for dialogue, urging communities to unite in the pursuit of harmony.

He expressed appreciation for the dedicated supporters who traveled from various villages, noting their commitment to honoring a shared heritage and their efforts to restore the teachings of Buddhism in India. This collective effort, he asserted, is vital not only for cultural preservation but also for revitalizing the spiritual essence of Buddhism in its birthplace. Additionally, he acknowledged the significant contributions of the Thai monarchy in this revival, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support and commitment to promoting Buddhist values, which are pivotal in strengthening ties between the two nations.

Notable attendees included Former Chief Secretary C. Phunsog; Former CEC Rigzen Spalbar; Dy. Chairman of LAHDC Leh Tsering Angchuk; Executive Councillor Tashi Namgyal Yakzee; Executive Councillor Stanzin Chosphel; Councillors Thinles Norboo, Ishey Spalzang, Ven. Konchok Tsephel, Phunchok Norboo; as well as the Presidents of the Ladakh Gonpa Association and the Ladakh Buddhist Association, along with leaders from the LBA, LBA Youth Wing, and LBA Women Wing.

The delegation attending the ceremony, led by the Lord Abbot of Wat Thai Royal Temple, included esteemed monks and representatives from the Royal Thai Embassy. Their presence embodies the spirit of friendship and cooperation that has flourished between the two nations. The distribution of the Buddha statues serves as a heartfelt symbol of goodwill, mutual respect, and our shared commitment to the teachings of Buddhism.

The ceremony commenced with an invocation led by Most Ven. Phra Dhambodhivong, the Lord Abbot of Wat Thai Royal Temple Bodhgaya.

MIMC has consistently dedicated itself to promoting peacebuilding and cultural preservation. Through various interfaith dialogues and vibrant festivals, they celebrate the rich Buddhist and Himalayan heritage. This event not only underscores their commitment to these values but also deepens the cultural bonds between the Buddhist communities of India, particularly in Ladakh, and Thailand.