Editor’s note: Buddhists celebrate Buddha Shakyamuni’s birth (563 BC), enlightenment and passing into Pari nirvana. All these events took place on the same day, with a difference between the first and the last in 80 years. All churches of Kalmykia will host solemn divine services, charity events, concerts and festive treats for believers and laity.
In Elista, the main events will take place in the central khurul "The Golden Abode of Buddha Shakyamuni" ("Burhn bagshin altn sum"). It is the largest temple in Europe, with the biggest statue of Buddha and the world's only sculptural composition of 17 pandit scholars from the ancient Indian University of Nalanda. Built in 2005 with the blessing of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama with personal funds from first President of Kalmykia, sixth FIDE President Kirsan Ilyumzhinov and public donations, the khurul has become a hallmark of Elista.
May 26 this year, Kalmykia celebrates the birthday of Buddha Shakyamuni. This is one of the main holidays in the Buddhist calendar, which falls on the 15th lunar day of the holy month of Ypc cap.
First President of Kalmykia, sixth FIDE President Kirsan Ilyumzhinov congratulated the Buddhists, his fellow countrymen:
“I congratulate fellow countrymen and all Buddhists on a great holiday - the birthday of Buddha Shakyamuni!
On this blessed day, we celebrate three important events in the life of the Master - birth, enlightenment and departure to Pari nirvana. Buddha Shakyamuni came to our world to help people find happiness and get rid of adversity. Today, on the birthday of the great Teacher, we not only rejoice at his wonderful deeds, but also try to follow his example and do virtuous endeavours.
