The Fourth Lumbini International Tripitaka Chanting has officially begun in Lumbini, with a four-day programme dedicated to highlighting the region’s spiritual significance and spreading the message of peace and fraternity. The event kicked off on Wednesday with the lighting of a lamp by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Urban Development, Prakashman Singh, marking the inauguration of the chanting.

Before the chanting commenced, a procession was organised by Nepal Theravada Vihar, with participants marching from the Mayadevi Temple to the venue. The procession, which was accompanied by music and traditional instruments, featured a beautifully adorned Buddha statue and a Tripitaka, making its way to the temple through the Peace Lamp.

More than 100 foreign monks and nuns from 12 countries, including Thailand, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka, are taking part in the event. In addition, over 400 Nepali monks, gurus, and lay practitioners are also involved, according to Bhikkhu Nirodh Mahasthavir, the secretary of the organising committee.

The opening ceremony was attended by diplomats, including the Thai Ambassador to Nepal, Suwapong Sirisorn, Myanmar’s Ambassador to Nepal, Myo Myint Maung, and the Acting Sri Lankan Ambassador, Chameera Munasinghe, who all addressed the gathering.

The chanting will take place from March 5 to March 8 at the sacred Mayadevi Temple in Lumbini. The event, organised by the All Nepal Bhikkhu Federation, will see the recitation of the Tipitaka over the four days. On the first day, the Suttapitaka will be recited, followed by the Vinayapitaka on the second day and the Abhidhammapitaka on the third day. The final day will feature a closing ceremony. The chanting will be held from 8:30 am to 5 pm each day.