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Dr. Ambedkar Memorial Committee GB
Mrs. Kamla Chumber (General Secretary) Dr. Ambedkar Memorial Committee GB London : Member of Dr. Ambedkar Memorial Committee GB, Mr. Atma Ram Jakhu and Mrs. Vidya Jakhu with the family members offered Kathina Offering of Robes to the Sangha on Sunday 11th November, at the Dr. Ambedkar Buddhist Centre, Upper Zoar Street, Pennfields, WV3 OJH. It was an overall success due mainly to all, and we thank all who participated on the auspicious day members, supporters and family. We hope to see you all next year. Next year Kathina will be offered by Mr. & Mrs. Shadi Lal Sallan and family & once again thanks to all. Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com (December 12, 2007) |
Shri Guru Ravidas Temple Burlington (Toronto) Canada
Welcomes to Bhante Chanderbodhi Ji Bhante Ji will deliver a religious sermon for the sangat of Guru Ghar On Sunday October 28, 2007. All are invited to come to Shri Guru Ravidas Temple Burlington (Toronto) Canada. Courtesy of: Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, Canada Posted on October 25, 2007 |
Punjab Buddhist Society Punjab, India Celebrating Kathina at
Takshila Maha Buddha Vihara, Ludhiana, Punjab, India On November 25, 2007, 11:00am – 5:00pm Ludhiana: Participating Buddhist Monks: Bhante Bodhi Pallo (Aurangabad, India), Bhante Devind (U.P., India), Sponsoring upasaks: D.D. Ahir (Telford, England), Rattan Lal Sampla (Germany), S.L. Ghinda (Scotland), also supported by: Punjab Buddhist Society UK (England) Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, Canada
Posted on November 21, 2007 |
Kathina ceremony performed at
Toronto: - Kathina Robe offering is one of the most meritorious activities in Buddhism. All monks must have to observe the Vassa, living at one monastery for three months during rainy season. The monks who fulfill the Vassa retreat without breaking and performed Pavarana at the end are able to accept Kathina Robe. There are two ceremonies in Kathina offering. One is the Kathina robe is offered to Bhikkhu Sangha as a whole and second, the Sangha selects an individual Monk to offer the Kathina robe. This year at the Indian Buddhist Temple Establish under Ambedkar Mission Toronto monks has successfully completed the vassa. Mr. & Mrs. Banta Ram Jakhu sponsored this year Kathina ceremony event with his family. All other family friends and members supported the ceremony by helping them. Program was started at 11:00 AM by performing the Buddha Puja. Bhante Gyanosri, Resident Monk of the Temple, Ven. U. Wimala (Mahadhamik Burmese Temple), Ven. Vireak Phom (Cambodian Temple) and Ven. Nil Choeun (Combodian Temple) performed this ceremony. After the Puja, all the devotees offered lunch to the monks. All other devotees enjoyed the lunch when the Ven Monks finished their lunch. Ven. Ahangama Rathanasiri Thero, Ven. Udupihille Wimalabuddhi, Ven. Tissa Nalaka of Toronto Mahavihara Society joined the ceremony at 01:30 PM. Traditional robe offering ceremony was performed and Bhante Rathanasiri Thero explained the significance of this event, which is celebrated only once a year. All the Monks present performed prayer and chanting on this occasion. Communities form Bangla Desh, Indonesia, Balmik Sabha and Guru Ravi Dass Sabha Ontario also participated in the ceremony. Anand Balley General Secretary Thank to all Family and Dhamma Friend Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com (December 1, 2007) |
Indian Buddhist Society Toronto Sets to create History in Toronto with Gurudwaras R. K. Oshoraj Toronto:- During Bhante Chanderbodhi Ji’s recent trip to Canada; Indian Buddhist Society Toronto arranged Bhante Ji’s visit for two Guru Ravidas Temples in Toronto: one in Toronto and the other one in Burlington (Toronto) which creates history for the first time that a Buddhist Monk shared religious excerpts with the gurudwara sangat (audience). Bhante Ji’s pravachan (sermon) was warmly received by the audience in both gurudwaras. One of the many similarities was touched by Bhante Ji to prove the common religious message of Buddha and Shri Guru Ravidass Ji’s Gurbani about the welfare of all (Sarvjan Hitaye, Sarvjan Sukhaye and Sarbat Da Bhalaa). Sangat was heartily appreciative of Bhante Ji for taking time from his short and busy schedule to spend some time with them in the gurudwara. Presidents of both Guru Ravidas Temples in Toronto are two real brothers: Mr. Ram Sandhi and Mr. Harmesh Sandhi. Both presidents received Bhanteji with great devotion and respect. Sangat of both gurudwaras respected Bhante Ji as a religious symbol of Buddhism and paid their respects. We also appreciate the efforts of Bhai Shaminder Singh Ji of Guru Ghar Burlington (Toronto) to make it happen for Burlington Shri Guru Ravidass Guru Ghar. The management committee of Indian Buddhist Society Toronto is indebted to both management committees of gurudwaras for joining hands to create history by having a Buddhist Monk first time in the Gurudwaras to share the common religious message for the welfare of the humanity. Posted on November 15, 2007 |
Kathina Robe Offering Ceremony
Successfully celebrated in UK Ven. S. M. Sujano 
Along the speakers was venerable Dr. W. Kassapa Mahathera, the abbot of Birmingham Buddhist Maha Vihara and president of the international Buddhist Relief Organization to whom we express deep gratitude and thanks for his support and help for flourishing of society. Many thanks also to Rob Marris MP for making the effort to attend, for his encouraging words and for donating a robe to the venerable sangha. And also thanks to Cllr. Elias Mattu and Cllr. John Reynolds for making the effort to attend the function and offering the robes to the monks. Mr. Chanan Chahal vice president of PBSUK and Mr. Malkiat Singh Bahal also gave short information concerning Buddhist situation in India and PBS UK’s success to establish monk’s training centre (Takshila Maha Buddha Vihara/Seema) in Ludhiana Punjab, India. They also invite all the members and supporters of PBSUK to come forward and continue their support and help for the development of Buddhadhamma in India as the wish of ‘Baba Saheb Ambedkar’ to make India into Buddhist country as it was. This year’s programme became more colourful with the children’s presentations and Thai entertainments. All the audience were attracted and kept deep concentration on Miss Shachi Ashok Chakravorti from London’s recitation of such a wonderful Buddhist chanting, followed by loving kindness (Metta Bhavana) chanting by Master Shrey Ashok Chakravorti. Audience were also enjoyed flute music played by Miss Anisha Payne from Wolverhampton and Miss Kimaya Midha read her poetry, which was especially composed for this ceremony. All the participants were greatly entertained with Thai group’s singing and dancing, which was leaded by Mrs Dao. We are also grateful and thanks to her for bringing sound system for our ceremony too. And also thanks to Mrs Bee for being moderator for this session. Our gratitude is due to Ven. Chander bodhi, the president of the PBS UK. The widespread support of this event and the rapid growth of the PBS owe much to his energy and whole-hearted commitment. Further, with a hearty thanks to all individuals, organizations and associations whose endeavours contribution to such a memorable day. The programme was conducted by Ven. Sujan a resident monk at PBSUK. With the power of triple gem, all your generosity in making an offering on this occasion come together and May these merits bring you happiness, strength and wisdom. Posted on November 07, 2007 |
Organized a Seminar on Buddhism in Toronto Report by: R. K. Oshoraj On October 27, 2007, A Buddhist Seminar was organized by Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, Canada to raise funds for Takshila Maha Buddha Vihara Ludhiana, Panjab, India. Seminar was presided over by well known Punjabi Buddhist Monk Venerable Chander Bodhi Ji of Punjab Buddhist Society UK. Indian Buddhist Society Toronto is the first organization to dare to invite thoughts on the most sentimental and emotional topic of religion in today’s age which most of the organizations hesitate to touch. Thoughts on various aspects of religion were shared by speakers and Bhante Ji explained the importance of religion in everyday life; in specific to Buddhism. Baba Sahib Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s thoughts on religion were also shared by speakers. General consensus agreed to have a need of religion for the individuals and the society regardless of which part of the globe they habitat. First time in Toronto’s history, it was a unique seminar on Buddhism by the Indian Buddhists. Audience was encouraged to ask questions to clarify the information with the speakers after their speech. Basically, it was an interactive seminar. The credit goes to the supporters and the team members of Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, Canada to put together such a tremendous event. Program was organized in Pine Valley Banquet Hall in Toronto. Hall was decorated with flowers, the banners of Indian Buddhist Society Toronto and portraits of Lord Buddha along with statues of various colors and sizes. Several candles of different fragrances were lit in the hall before observing tri-sharan and panch-sheel. Program started with Buddhist Prayer performed by Bhante Chander Bodhi Ji. Various local organizations participated in the program and supported financially. Lots of members of other organizations volunteered for help. Indian Buddhist Society Toronto appreciates their compassionate support. Various well known local personalities shared their views in the seminar. They were: Mr. Kashmir Singh, Dr. Kewal Kailay, Mr. Darbara Singh, Mr. Jagir Bance, Mr. Sukhdev Thaper, Mr. Nirmal Sallan and Mr. Dev Bhatti. Dr. Kewal Kailay shared his thoughts on what is a religion, why do we need a religion and what is important in a religion. He was of the opinion that a religion must possess equality and fraternity for its followers. People must flourish in their religion and become caring citizens over time in the society. Mr. Darbara Singh, with a great compassion, shared his thoughts on Buddhism. He also dared all to learn and practice religion at their own. Mr. Singh spoke from his heart and with self experience of Dhamma. I must mention here that Mr. Singh was always a religious person though he commended the way of Buddhism which taught him how to practice Dhamma. His thoughts were very inspiring and he concluded his speech by declaring himself to be a practicing Buddhist. Mr. Jagir Bance expressed his thoughts on social equality and wanted to see a casteless society all around the world. He appreciated efforts of Indian Buddhist Society Toronto to organize such programs where community gets a chance to sit together and discuss common issues. Mr. Nirmal Sallan also emphasized to follow Baba Sahib’s way to help improve the social status of our community and appreciated chance to share his thoughts in such program. Mr. Sukhdev Thaper and Mr. Dev Bhatti also shared their views. Mr. Kashmir Singh made his efforts to participate in the program even thought he had other engagements as well. As usual, he inspired all to work hard and make all your dreams come true either those are financial, social or religious since we live in the part of the world where no dream is impossible to achieve. All speakers were not afraid of presenting their thoughts openly about religion. They all agreed that each individual does need a religion that treats everyone equal and fair. Religion must help an individual to become a better citizen of the society it lives in. Religion also gives an identity to its followers. Bhante Chander Bodhi Ji concluded the program. Of course, he gave his Dhamma Talk on Buddhism. He inspired all to live a blissful life where ever we are and that will help us and others around us to have a blissful life too. Bhante Ji also expressed to have the right understanding of the religious scriptures. There are times when we are explained different meanings of the religious scriptures by different people and it’s in everyone’s interest to have the right understanding of the religion/dhamma. We must try to understand the Dhamma message of Lord Buddha which is for the welfare of the whole humanity not for any individual alone (Sarvjan Hitay Sarvjan Sukhay). Mr. Parkash Rahul (President: Indian Buddhist Society Toronto) thanked the audience for their financial support and presence. On behalf of Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, he gave commitment to organize more programs in the future to spread Buddhism and Baba Sahib’s message to make India a Buddhist country. Snacks and soft drinks were served throughout the program and a delicious vegetarian dinner was also served in a beautifully decorated banquet hall. I had the honor to facilitate the seminar. Posted on November 03, 2007 |
Ven. Sangharathana & Ven. Vicitta & Dr. Ambedkar Memorial Committee of |
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Invite you to Celebrate Kathina Day Offering of Robes to the Sangha On: Sunday 11 thNovember Time: 10-30am to 4.00pm At the: Dr. Ambedkar Buddhist Centre, Upper Zoar Street , Pennfields, Wolverhampton , WV3 OJH In Buddhist tradition, a full moon day in July marks the beginning of the rainy season. This season is also known as Wassana Reetu or Wassana Kala. During this period, the Buddhist Laity invite Venerable Monks to stay at a dwelling (usually a Buddha Vihara) for three months to preach the Dhamma. The laity attend to the general needs of the Venerable Monks and listen to the Dhamma on a daily basis. The rainy season lasts for three months and comes to end on full moon day in October. This marks the beginning of Kathina when the laity offer the Sacred Cheevra (orange robe) to the Venerable Monks. Kathina comes to end on full moon day in November. Kathina Ceremony to be conducted by Ven. Dr. Sri Sumana from London. Everyone is cordially invited to attend this programme with friends, families and relatives. Kathina Offering this year will be offered by Mr Atma Ram Jakhu and Mrs Vidya Jakhu along with their family, devotee friends, relatives, members and supporters, at the Dr. Ambedkar Buddhist Centre. Those who wish to offer Robes to the Sangha (Venerable Monks) may contact Mr Tarsem Kaul in advance on Mobile 07800815296 or 01902 650125. Each Robe costing £25.00 each. Those who wish to offer food to the Sangha, please arrive at the Buddha Vihara before 11.00am . Programme 10-45am Lighting Candles, Joss-sticks, Puja, Five Precepts, 11-00am Chanting, 11-30am Offering lunch to Sangha, 12-00am Lunch for lay-devotees, 1-00pm Offering of Kathina Robes, by Mr A R Jakhu and Lay- Devotees, 2-00pm Dhamma sermon by Venerable Monks, 3-00pm Dhamma sermon by Lay Devotees, 3-45pm Blessings and close with tea and refreshments. For further information please contact Buddha Vihara on 01902 715094 or Mrs. Kamla Chumber on 07817483471 Posted on Nov. 1, 2007 |
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Kathina celebration by Punjab Buddhist Society UK Kathina Robe offering is one of the most meritorious activities in Buddhism. All monks must have to observe the Vassa, living at one monastery for three months during rainy season. The monks who fulfil the Vassa retreat without breaking and performed Pavarana at the end are able to accept Kathina Robe. There are two ceremonies in Kathina offering. One is the Kathina robe is offered to Bhikkhu Sangha as a whole and second, the Sangha selects an individual Monk to offer the Kathina robe. This year at the centre of PBSUK three monks has successfully completed the vassa. Every year, Punjab Buddhist Society UK celebrates this Kathina Ceremony with joy and happy. The society invites all communities and organizations; English, Indian, Thai, Burmese etc to join on this auspicious occasion of Kathina Robe offering. Thus, all are humbly invited to participate on this meritorious Kathina Robe offering ceremony. Everyone can make offering as you like or if you would like to make any special offerings please contact to: Mr. Harbans Lal Virdee at: 02085 752348 / 07956918053, Ven. Chander Bodhi at: 01902 656665 / 07733412317, This year’s main Kathina Robe is sponsored by Mr. Harbans Lal, Mrs. Sumitra Virdee and Family from Southall at 11:00 am Gathering at the centre, Observation of Sila, 11:30 am Offering Lunch to Venerable Monks, 12:00 am Lunch for lay devotees, 1:00 pm Dhamma talks on Kathina in English/Hindi/Punjabi, 2:00 pm Offering Kathina Robes and Pha Pa to the Venerable Sangha, 3:15 pm Cultural programme (Thai and Indian communities), 4.15 pm Vote of Thanks by Ven. Chander Bodhi, Blessing and Anumodana, Tea and Refreshment programme. Posted on October 22, 2007 |
Dear Friends in the dhamma, On behalf of all the members of the PUNJAB BUDDHIST SOCIETY UK would like to invite you to a very special BUDDHAMARGA gathering at the vihara on the above date. We will be privileged to be addressed by a very distinguished teacher of Buddhist Philosophy and meditation on a subject relevant to all of us. Short biography of Ven. Sayadaw Jnanapurnik Mahasthavir Posted on Oct. 17, 2007 |
ABS Temple Sacramento Since the time of the Buddha, each year at the end of the three-month of Rainy Retreat (Vas), the monks and lay community of each Theravada Buddhist Temple gather to celebrate the making of merit in the previous three months. The significant part of the ceremony is the offering of a specially prepared robe to the Maha Sangha. It is also the day to shower the Temple with gifts and supplies to be used by the monks throughout the following year. This ceremony is performed only once a year at each Theravada temple in the world. It is a truly joyful occasion, one that gives devotees the opportunity to make offerings and to improve the richness of the relationship between the lay people and the Sangha. This year about fifteen monks and nuns have been invited to celebrate the Kathina Ceremony with ABS members and friends. Saturday evening, October 20: The most auspicious part of the evening is the Ceremonial Chanting of the specially selected teachings of the Buddha. This will include the Dhammacakka Sutta (First Sermon of the Buddha) and the Atanatiya Sutta recited by monks in age-old traditional melody. Special Chanting Chamber (Mandapa) will be erected as a symbol of veneration to Dhamma. Listeners are expected to focus on the sound silently throughout the recitation. The ceremony is organized mainly to bring good health and prosperity to all those who help the temple and their loved ones. Please be at the temple before 6:00 P.M. Sunday, October 21: Kathina Celebration begins very early in the morning when lay followers bring the material needed to prepare the Kathina Robe and offer it to Sangha. The cloth is carefully cut and sewn by the lay followers with the help of the monks. The finished Kathina Robe will be ready by mid-day to be offered. This robe together with other gift articles prepared by lay followers will be ceremonially offered to the Sangha immediately after lunch. Lunch will be served to everyone. If you are attending from afar please plan to arrive at the temple before 10:30 A.M. The main sponsor of Kathina Ceremony this year is Mr. & Mrs. Bouttry Janetvilay and their family of Richmond, California. Traditionally, sponsoring a Kathina Ceremony is regarded as a great privilege and as one of the most meritorious deeds that lay followers can perform. If you wish to sponsor a Kathina in the future year, please contact Ven. Shantha, the abbot of the temple, for registration. The monks and the Dayaka Sabha (body of members) of ABS Temple warmly invite you, your family and friends to attend the ceremony on both Saturday and Sunday to benefit from the activities.May the Triple Gem shower blessings upon you for good health and happiness. Monks and the Dayaka Sabha Kathina Ceremony Schedule Saturday, Oct. 20, 2007 06:00 P.M. Buddha Pooja, 06:30 P.M. Refreshment for every one, 07:00 P.M. Ceremonial Pirith chanting, 10:15P.M. Distribution of Pirith Water and Threads Sunday, Oct. 21, 2007 To participate in the food offering, please contact one of the following organizers: Ramani (916-332 9515), Jayantha (916-375-1780), Kamini (196-372-6629), Gayatri (209-832-3818) Kathina Ceremony day can be called the Annual Dana day. Dana, generosity is the most fundamental practice of the Buddhist life. By maintaining a temple and supporting Sangha all of you are participating in Dhamma Dana, the gift (Dana) that excels all other gifts. Temple is a place where many people find solace whether they are happy or sad. Even your small contribution to maintain the temple and carryout its services will help ease the financial burden of those who regularly contribute. Kathina Ceremony is a wonderful opportunity for all of you to contribute generously and be benefited by it here and hereafter. Posted on October 11, 2007 |
NIAGARA FALLS CANADA ONE OF THE SEVEN WONDERS OF CANADA
Photos and report by: Raj Kumar Oshoraj Niagara Falls is around 12000 years old natural wonder of Canada and it is at the border of America and Canada. Niagara Falls is located about 130 kilometers to the west of Toronto on Niagara River . Over one million bathtubs of water flowing every minute in these falls. What an exciting place to be at, when the temperature is above normal in summer! Members of Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, Canada went to see Niagara Falls last weekend and also visited Ten Thousand Buddha Temple to receive Lord Buddha's blessings. As the name of the temple states number of Buddhas; in fact, there are ten thousand statues of Lord Buddha in various postures and sizes in the temple. Each floor of seven story temple repesents seven life stages of Lord Buddha. We encourage everyone to visit this temple when ever you are in Niagara Falls. Posted on August 01, 2007 |
ASALHA PUJA DAY CELEBRATED
IN WOLVERHAMPTON (UK) Sujan Asalha puja day or known as either Sangha day or Dhammacakkappavatana day is another important day of Buddhism was celebrated at 83 Lea Road , Wolverhampton on 30 July 2007 at evening. A number of devotees were attended to the function. The function started from observing five precepts from Ven. Chander Bodhi, a president of PBS UK . Ven. Sujan, Ven. Tejwant were present. Ven. Tejwant introduced brief introduction of Asalha purnima and concept of ultimate happiness of nibbana. Ven. Chander Bodhi also gave a Dhamma Talks on introduction, important and necessary of Asalha Puja day in Buddhism and for the modern soceity. Further, he explained the lay people's duties on this particular day too. The function was end with short meditation and blessings from the monks and refreshment for all. Forwarded by Mr. R. K. OSHORAJ **************** Posted on August 01, 2007 |
Some pictures from Asahra Day celebration ASHARA DAY CELEBRATED AT (Inviting Monk for Raining Season Retreat) ******************** The auspicious lunar full Moon day of Ashara or Dhamma cakkapavattana day was celebrated in the Indian Buddhist Temple Toronto (Established Under:AmbedkarMission) Saturday 28th, 2007 by the aggregate Buddhist community. It was started from the morning 10.30am Buddha Puja or worship of wisdom than all lay devotee received the five and eight precepts 11.35 lunch for monk and special precepts holder 1pm a Dhamma discourse about explanation about meaningful the of the day, at 4pm the exhibition the Buddhist books, picture and handicraft and kids program; in evening lantern festival or light puja. The Most venerable A. Rathanasiri president of Toronto Mahavihara . Venerable Vimalabodhi principal of Buddhist Sunday school Toronto mahavihara and venerable Tissamaharamaye Nalaka was joins the evening chanting or Dhamma sermon. At First Venerable Vimala Bodhi Theo gives the five noble precepts to all lay devotees. The Venerable Rathanasiri’s Dhamma talk about why the Ashara is important for the all human being who want to be a happiness or peaceful life and the Lord Buddha was give this day His first sermon in Sernath (dissipating) with five ascetics and others village people 2551 years ago and foundation of Buddhism. Ven. Rathanasiri also talks about the Dana (merit), as we are human being than we have to make merit to the songha or help to the society and share with needy people our wealth and good concept. Sila (precepts) Morality it is need for the all people Buddhist or Non-Buddhist Lord Buddha was a first law maker in the world history or this theory adopted by others religious groups or a country constitutions, because without morality the people are can’t save their own self and others so the law have to be practice by every one for build a great civilization and save to others from the evil activity. vabana (Meditation). It is most important a part of human life, the meditation or mind development people are they do or have to do many thing in their every day life, likewise job, Business, and care of their own family and relatives and this all thing make the people are craziness in their mind restlessly. So they forget the their main aim or what they want to do for rest of life: this meditation make all self development and increasingly a rest or Spiritually life which one make people sympathy or compassion to others and avoid harming to others, this tree thing have to practice all people’s. And Ven. Rathanasiri was advised to all Indian Devotee to participate in the temple on Sunday for listen Dhamma from the monk or bring their Kids temple for study about Buddhism or principal daily Buddhist life Vinaya and Sutra. And Venerable Gayanosri Shraman abbot of the Indian Buddhist Temple Toronto give the well come and thanks for their co-operation all Buddhist community who are all supporting the Temple and its first Canadian History that the establish the Indian Buddhist Temple and (Patipada) its mean regularly practicing the Dhamma Vinaya or make the all Buddhist important day whatever Lord Buddha was teaches for us. And I hope or belief that in future Indo-Canadian Buddhist or Non-Buddhist are support for the new building foundation. Anand Balley (Gen. Sec) Ambedkar Mission Thanks to all the Participants and Honor the Gust from Vancouver Mr.Narinder Bangar with (Dr.Ambedkar Jiwan and Mission Written by Shri L.R.Balley). The Lunar full moon Ashara or Dhammacakkapavattana day will bring all human being an aspiration and righteousness in life. Venerable gayanosri Sharaman Abbot of Indian Buddhist temple Toronto Email: Gayanosri@yahoo.com . ibttoronto@yahoo.com , Phone 416-609-8953 N.B:- If you need any kind of information about the Temple than please contact us without hesitation. POSTED ON JULY 31, 2007
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INDIAN BUDDHIST SOCIETY TORONTO, CANADA How Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, Canada did come in existence? There were East Indian organizations registered in Toronto since the early seventies but their objectives and motives were other than spreading Buddhism in Canada. Even the groups who claimed to follow Baba Sahib Dr. Ambedkar’s philosophy did not move a step further to promote Buddhism. They were always hesitant to go public and promote Indian Buddhism. For whatever reasons, they were trying hard to keep a low profile to promote Indian Buddhism. Some exchange of ideologies took place among the followers of Baba Sahib but the present members of Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, Canada took the responsibility at their shoulders to fulfill Baba Sahib’s dream to promote Buddhism among Indians and non-Indians. It goes back to almost seven years when Venerable Bhadant Rahula Bodhi Maha Thero visited Toronto to raise funds for the establishment of the Vihara in Bombay. Bhadant Rahula Bodhi is a renowned name in the Buddhist world. He is the founder President and Trustee of the Bhikkhu Sangha's United Buddhist Mission Bombay, India. Bhanteji Rahul Bodhi stayed in Toronto for a week and we were fortunate to spend some time with him along with other Buddhists: Parkash Rahul, Mohan Virdee, Late Jit Lal Jhamat, Gurbax Rai and Hardev Bungar. Bhanteji was very confident to raise enough funds to build a Vihara in Bombay at his own. It was very motivating for us. We were asking Bhanteji when he is going to build a Vihara in Punjab. Every time Bhanteji told us about building Vihara in Bombay we kept asking repeatedly that when he is planning to build a Vihara in Punjab. We think when he could not keep it up with our repeated questions, he said, “Raj, so far, I have not seen anybody so persistent and keen on building a Vihara in Punjab and I promise you that after I complete my project in Bombay, my next project will be for Punjab.” Years gone by and Bhante Rahul Bodhi Ji got busy with his project in Bombay and I did not have any contacts with him. As there is a saying that where there is a will there is a way. Beyond our expectations, a monk visited Toronto and I was again informed about his arrival. By now, I had no intentions or hope of a vihara’s establishment in Punjab and I went to meet the visiting monk along with other members. To everyone’s surprise, this monk was speaking Punjabi and was building a Vihara in England but not in Punjab. I kept quiet and I was not very confident about talking to him about building a Vihara in Punjab. I listened to everything he was saying religiously and a vision of a Vihara for Punjab was still in my mind. Three years later, same monk came to Canada again and who is well known among us today and his name is Venerable Chanderbodhi Ji from England. This time the purpose of his visit was to raise funds to build a Vihara in Punjab. After learning this from Bhante Chanderbodhi Ji, we were all very excited and blissful. It was like a dream come true for us, while living in Canada and supporting a monk to build a Buddha Vihara in Punjab. Without any delays, we started getting together with our active workers to raise funds for the Vihara to be built in Kadian, Ludhiana, Punjab. We worked with Punjab Buddhist Society UK until the completion of the Takshila Maha Buddha Vihara Kadian, Ludhiana in Punjab. It is quite remarkable to mention here that Bhante Rahula Bodhi also delivered his promise and gave his over hundred percent support to complete Takshila Maha Buddha Vihara. During the completion of Vihara in Punjab, Bhante Chanderbodhi Ji saw a fire was burning in us to light more souls to connect with Lord Buddha’s teachings. He suggested that we should have a banner of our own to continue working to spread Lord Buddha’s teachings. We continued supporting our brothers and sisters of Punjab Buddhist Society UK and in Punjab and also like the idea to continue working to spread Lord Buddha’s teachings to fulfill Baba Sahib’s dream at the same time. As a result, an organization was registered under the name of ‘Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, Canada. June 16, 2007, was the first Buddha Jayanti celebrated by Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, Canada. We also participated with Indian Buddhist Society Vancouver, Canada this year to celebrate Buddha Jayanti. Within a year, two Indian Buddhist Societies were registered in Canada and both work for the very same cause to spread Lord Buddha’s teachings of non-violence, peace and fraternity among Punjabis, Indians and around the world. Ours is very young organization, but we have members with well versed experience. Members of the Indian Buddhist Society Toronto are very committed and dedicated. They are crystal clear about the objectives of the organization and the direction they want to excel in future. First time in the history of Canada our Indian Buddhist Society Toronto shared the message of Lord Buddha’s Dhamma in Punjabi media and celebrated Buddha Jayanti. Ours is also the first organization to go in Punjabi media to spread the message of Lord Buddha in Canada continuously for several weeks before the celebrations of Buddha Jayanti. Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, Canada will continue aiming high with the support of our well wishers and noble people around the globe. Posted on July 30, 2007 |
INDIAN BUDDHIST SOCIETY TORONTO, CANADA CELEBRATED 2551ST BUDDHA JAYANTI ON JUNE 16, 2007 SOME PICTURES FROM BUDDHA JAYANTI CELEBRATION BY R. K. OSHORAJ
Report by RAJ KUMAR OSHORAJ Indian Buddhist Society Toronto appreciates all of you for participating in the celebrations to keep Baba Sahib's dream live of our people practicing and promoting the message of Lord Buddha on non-violence and peace in our community and throughout the world.
Buddhist Monks performed prayer which followed by chanting blessings of Lord Budha by six monks for the audience. Venerable Saranpala Ji from West End Buddhist Centre, Mississauga lead monks during the opening ceremony of the program. The presence of the monks was heart felt by the audience. All monks were wearing same color cholas/robes and the stage was looking covered with maroon color, lots of Dhamma Flags and a huge banner of Lord Buddha on one side of the stage. Buddha Jayanti celebrations were very visual just by entering the hall. There were more than one Buddha statues along with candles, flowers and sences on a nicely decorated table in white. Also, there was a Baba Sahib's portrait in the feet of Lord Buddha's statues. Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, invited Mr. Mohan Gill from California, USA and Mr. M.S. Bahal well known community workers who are making all efforts to spread Buddha's message among our community and as well as to the rest of the world community. They are both honest and committed workers to take Baba Sahib's paigaam/message to everyone as well. I must mention here, that, not like some other so called missionaries in our community, both of them came to attend our celebrations at their own expense and time. Their such committment shows that they are the true messangers of Dhamma and Baba Sahib's mission. I hope it teahces a lesson to some of the other missionaries who most of the time keep their personal interest in front of everthing else and are never ready to do anything at their expense. Mr. Mohan Gill stressed the fact that Buddhism is a need of our today's society locally, nationally and internationally. We can not establish our casteless society without Buddhism not only in India but also in abroad. He also gave assurance that our people can live a life of dignity and respect by joining Buddhism. He appreciated the contributions of Baba Sahib for our community to help us to find a religion like Buddhism. Mr. Gill also shared his contibution of an ongoing fight againt casteism that is very well spread out of India as well. He concluded his speech by recommending to follow Buddhism a wayout of casteism that was also recommended by our savior and the pioneer revivalist of Buddhism in India, Baba Sahib Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. Mr. Kashmir Singh a well known industrialist and a great community worker participated in the program. He encouraged the audience to work hard, have good life and support your children to achieve higher education and be su |
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