A delegation of prominent Buddhist leaders met with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus yesterday (October 5) to exchange greetings for the ‘Probarona Purnima’ festival, expressing profound gratitude for the interim government's swift allocation of land for a Buddhist cremation ground in the capital.

The meeting, held at the State Guest House Jamuna, was marked by a celebratory and appreciative tone. The leaders lauded the government's quick response to their long-standing need for a crematorium in Dhaka. "After informing the interim government about the matter, the land for the cremation ground was allocated within 10 days. This is unique in history,” the delegation stated. They explained that this act of support has ended the arduous practice of transporting their deceased from Dhaka to Chittagong for last rites, emotionally adding, “Now, there is a place after death (in the capital).”

The Buddhist leaders emphasized that the government's decisive action is a powerful symbol of its commitment to religious harmony and creating an inclusive society where all faiths are respected.

During their warm exchange, the leaders also explained the spiritual significance of Probarona Purnima and updated the Chief Adviser on preparations for the upcoming ‘Kathin Chibor Dan’ festival. A formal invitation was extended to Professor Yunus to visit their Vihara, or monastery, at his convenience. The delegation also made a point to express their gratitude to the Ministry of Religious Affairs and the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs for their consistent cooperation.

The discussion also turned towards future initiatives. The delegation presented proposals for the government's consideration, including the establishment of government-facilitated pilgrimages for devotees and the creation of a dedicated knowledge center named in honor of the renowned Buddhist scholar Atish Dipankar.

The meeting was also attended by Religious Affairs Adviser Dr. AFM Khalid Hossain and Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Adviser Supradip Chakma. The Buddhist delegation included key figures such as Principal Buddhapriya Mahathera of Dharmarajika Buddhist Mahavihar and Bhikkhu Sunandapriya, General Secretary of the Bangladesh Buddhist Federation, among other trustees and representatives.

BOB Post