Prabarana Purnima in Bangladesh

Prabarana Purnima, also known as Ashwini Purnima, is a significant Buddhist festival celebrated on the full moon day of the Bengali month of Ashwin (September-October).

History and Significance: This day marks the end of the three-month rainy season retreat called 'Vassa', during which Buddhist monks remain stationary in one place, often in monasteries, engaging in meditation and Dharma talks. The tradition is believed to have been observed since the time of Gautama Buddha. Prabarana signifies "to invite," referencing a period when monks would invite each other to point out any faults committed during Vassa.

Traditions: On Prabarana Purnima, Buddhists perform various religious activities. They visit temples to offer prayers and give alms to monks. People light candles and release lanterns symbolizing enlightenment. The Kathin Chibor Dan, which involves offering robes to the monks, is another significant tradition observed during this period.

Activities on the Day:

• Visiting Temples: Devotees visit nearby temples early in the morning for prayers and sermons.
• Giving Alms: It's customary for laypeople to provide food and other necessities to Buddhist monks.
• Lighting Lamps: Many light lamps or candles around homes and temples, signifying spiritual light.
• Kathin Chibor Dan: This is a key event where devotees donate new robes and other requisites to the Sangha (monk community).
• Community Meals: Sharing food with family members, friends, and community is common.
• Meditation & Reflection: Some devotees engage in meditation sessions emphasizing personal reflection and spiritual growth.

The festival promotes values of generosity, moral conduct, and communal harmony amongst followers. While primarily a religious observance within the Buddhist community in Bangladesh, it also attracts interest from people of other faiths due to its cultural significance.