Prabarana Purnima observed in Bandarban

Photo: Mumit M.

Prabarana Purnima, one of the most significant and the second largest religious festival of the Buddhists, was celebrated in Bandarban recently through a five-day programme. Prabarana Purnima, also known as Ashwini Purnima, is observed on the full moon night in the Bangla month of Ashwin. Buddhists celebrate the festival in commemoration of an ordeal of Siddharta Gautam Buddha, before attainting his enlightenment. Local people with the patronage of the King of Marma Circle arranged the colourful festival. The festival featured ritualistic events such as 'Bisharjan' and 'Roth Jatra', as well as contemporary sports, 'Pitha Utshab', discussion, music and dance. Enthusiastic people released hundreds of fanush during the fest and lit candles in the temples. Devotees from all walks of the hilly district gathered during the festivity.