May 15, 2025 — a truly special day for all devoted followers of the Buddha.
From all directions, the Sangha gathered in unity at the Texas State Capitol in Austin, with monastics from the Theravāda, Mahāyāna, and Vajrayāna traditions representing temples from Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Nepal, India, Tibet, and beyond.
The Grand Vesak Celebration was sponsored by Texas State Representative Salman Bhojani and held right on the Capitol steps.
The ceremony was solemnly presided over by Venerable Meditation Master Myauk Oo, joined by over 60 monks and nuns from various countries.
The event began with an introduction by Dr. Neeraj, followed by Buddhist ceremonial observances led by Venerable Paññakāra Tuệ Nhân, Executive Director of the Dhammacetiya Project.
Under the blazing midday sun, in front of the pink granite structure of the Texas Capitol, Elder Myauk Oo delivered a simple yet profound Dhamma talk—calling on the global Buddhist community to support the Ancient Sacred Buddhist Scripture Stupas – Dhammacetiya—bringing great joy to all.
Venerable Ratanaguna Bửu Đức then offered words of welcome, marking the first time Buddhism was formally celebrated at the Capitol.
One by one, monks from various traditions and nations shared their Dhamma reflections and heartfelt impressions on this joyous Vesak day.
In addition, State Representatives such as Mr. Bhojani, Mr. Suleman Lalani, Mr. Hubert Võ, and other officials gave remarks of celebration and gratitude to the Sangha and lay community.
The sacred chanting of the Sangha then echoed before the stupa and the statue of Bodhisattva Siddhartha, as if returning us to that ancient moment when He descended to bring the light of Truth.
The ceremony continued with the bathing of the Bodhisattva statue—first by the monastics and officials, then the lay devotees—commemorating His birth, uplifted by celestial beings and bathed in warm and cool streams of water.
The program concluded with a presentation of the Dhammacetiya Project, shared with the public and State Representatives in an atmosphere of joy and pledged support for this noble cause.
May celestial beings and all humanity rejoice in the merit cultivated today.
Namo Buddhaya
