MIMC Distribute 73 Buddha Statues to celebrate the 73rd birth anniversary of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun, the 10th King of the Chakri Dynasty of Thailand.

MIMC Distribute 73 Buddha Statues to celebrate the 73rd birth anniversary of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun, the 10th King of the Chakri Dynasty of Thailand.
Leh, Sept 24, 2024: The Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre (MIMC) announced a significant event marking the distribution of 73 small Buddha statues at the Mahabodhi Sambodhi Retreat Centre on Sept 23. This ceremony, organized in collaboration with the Royal Thai Embassy and the Wat Thai Royal Temple, Bodhgaya, celebrates the 73rd birth anniversary of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun, the 10th King of the Chakri Dynasty of Thailand.
The gathering was honored by the presence of numerous dignitaries, including Former Chief Secretary C. Phunsog; Former CEC, Rigzen Spalbar, LAHDC Leh; Dy. Chairman, LAHDC Leh Tsering Angchuk; Executive Councillor, LAHDC Leh ,Tashi Namgyal Yakzee, Executive Councillor Stanzin Chosphel,Hon’ble Councillors Thinles Norboo, Kyungyam, Ishey Spalzang, Nominated Ven. Konchok Tsephel, Nominated Phunchok Norboo, along with the Presidents of the Ladakh Gonpa Association and the Ladakh Buddhist Association, as well as 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, includes esteemed monks and representatives from the Royal Thai Embassy. Their presence embodies the spirit of friendship and cooperation that has flourished between our 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 began with an invocation led by Most Ven. Phra Dhambodhivong, the Lord Abbot of Wat Thai Royal Temple Bodhgaya. He arrived with a distinguished delegation of monks and representatives from the Royal Thai Embassy, highlighting the significance of this event in strengthening the bonds between the two nations. During the ceremony, the Buddha statues were distributed to esteemed dignitaries across Ladakh, promoting a message of peace, compassion, and mutual respect.
In particular, three statues sent by His Majesty the King of Thailand were presented to Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, the Ladakh Gonpa Association, and the Ladakh Buddhist Association, with their respected Presidents receiving them in person. Bhikkhu Sanghasena,Founder President & Spiritual Director, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Most Ven. Phra Dhambodhivong for choosing Ladakh for this significant ceremony, emphasizing the profound and enduring spiritual connection between our Buddhist communities. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Buddhists of Thailand for diligently preserving the sacred teachings of Lord Buddha in their land, especially during a time when these teachings had gradually faded in their birthplace, India. It was through the unwavering dedication of Thai Buddhists that these teachings were safeguarded and ultimately played a crucial role in the revival of Buddhism in India, restoring its spiritual legacy to its land of origin. Among the 73 dignitaries honored were the Deputy Chairman ,LAHDC Leh, Former Chief Secretary C. Phunsog; Hon’ble Executive Councillors and Councillors of different constituencies and other distinguished Ladakhi leaders and experts who have made significant contributions in their respective fields.
In a poignant speech, Ven. Sanghasena articulated the deep respect for Buddhism that exists in both India and Thailand, underscoring its essential role in fostering peace in a world increasingly beset by challenges such as climate change and social conflict. He highlighted how Buddhism’s teachings provide a moral compass and a framework for dialogue, urging communities to come together in the pursuit of harmony.
Ven. Sanghasena expressed gratitude for the dedicated supporters who had 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. Furthermore, he acknowledged the significant contributions of the Thai monarchy in this revival. He conveyed appreciation for their unwavering support and commitment to the promotion of Buddhist values, recognizing their role as pivotal in strengthening ties between the two nations.
MIMC has consistently dedicated itself to promoting peace building and cultural preservation. Through various interfaith dialogues and vibrant festivals,they celebrate the rich Buddhist and Himalayan heritage. This event not only highlights their commitment to these values but also deepens the cultural bonds between the Buddhist communities of India, particularly in Ladakh, and Thailand.