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Buddha Jayanti celebrated in Leh

     Leh: Thousands of enthusiastic Buddhism devotees converged at Leh in Ladakh region of Kashmir to celebrate Buddha Jayanti or, the birth anniversary of Lord Buddha on Saturday. The festival was celebrated with great religious fervour and gaiety at several monasteries located in Ladakh and also in Kargil. A huge congregation was witnessed at the famed Polo Grounds in Leh. Senior Lamas (Buddhist monks) of Ladakh and heads of different organisations, prominent citizens addressed the huge gathering which also included hundreds of schoolchildren. "Buddha Poornima is celebrated to remember the teachings of Lord Buddha. Buddha Jayanti which is the birthday of Lord Buddha is not only celebrated in India but all over the world in places like Thailand , Sri Lanka and Burma . It is celebrated with great pomp and show," said Dr. Tsewang Yangjor, a Buddhist scholar in Leh. Highlighting the teachings and life of Lord Buddha, Lobzang Rinchen who is the President of Buddhist Association, Leh, stressed upon the people to follow the path shown by Lord Buddha. Besides, a colourful procession was taken out from Chokhang Vihara in which the monks participated holding religious books and reciting prayers. Another notable attraction happened to be several tableaux depicting various facets and teaching of Lord Buddha and his life. Passing through the main market and other neighbourhood streets of Leh, the procession terminated at the Polo Grounds.
-May 9, 2009