Devotees lighting up lotus candles at the Mahindarama Buddhist Temple in Jalan Kampar, Penang. – LIM BENG TATT/The Star
THE Mahindarama Buddhist Temple in Jalan Kampar, Penang, was all lit up on the eve of Wesak Day when devotees took part in the lighting of 10,000 lotus candles to commemorate the Thrice Sacred Day – the Birth, Enlightenment and passing to Nirvana of Gautama Buddha.
Earlier, devotees were seen bringing packets of rice, mee hoon and oil to be offered as a mark of gratitude for having learnt the Dhamma teachings of the Buddha to guide them in their life.
They later took part in the puja chanting led by chief monk Rev Suriyawewa Dhammawansha Thero.
This was followed by the lighting of the three main lotus candles representing the Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha by Rev Suriyawewa and resident monks Rev Dhammaratana Maha Thera and Rev Succito.
Honorary consul for Australia in Penang Datuk Dr Lim Huat Bee, who was at the temple on Saturday, said his family had been going to the temple and taking part in the lighting ceremony for more than 40 years.
“After being unable to come for the lighting ceremony the past two years, we are just grateful and happy to be able to return here and light the candles,” he said.
His son Dr Lim Shueh Wei and wife Amanda brought their six-year-old daughter and five-year-old son to the temple to understand the significance of Wesak Day.
Accounts assistant J. Nithya, 31, was seen offering prayers at the temple with 11 of her family members from Port Dickson, Negri Sembilan.
“I am getting my marriage registered tomorrow with my fiance, who is from Penang, and therefore, my family and I decided to come here to seek blessings,” she said.
Nithya said it was her first visit to the temple after a friend told her about it.
Retiree Hong Chuan Hin, 62, held back tears when he said he came to pray for his late wife, who passed away recently.
“A friend told me about the candle lighting ceremony and I came here to pray for my wife’s good rebirth,” he said.
Temple management chairman Ghan Chee Tong said that with the resumption of Wesak Day activities, they remained cautious and made sure Covid-19 precautions were observed.
