KUALA LUMPUR: Although thousands of kilometres away from their home country, a group of Bangladeshi workers found their own unique way to celebrate Wesak Day at the Buddhist Maha Vihara Temple in Brickfields, here.
Beside the side gate of the temple, they parked their golden float, built on the back of a lorry.
Some of the devotees who walked past the float en route to the temple stopped to take photos before continuing on their way.
Sajieb Barua, 31, a member of the Bangladesh Buddhist Community, said that this is the second year they have made a float for Buddha.
"It is not for business but for us to celebrate, respect, and pray to Buddha.
"We took time to make the float because Wesak Day is important," he said, adding that their community was newly established last year.
He had lived in Malaysia for the past 13 years and had celebrated most Wesak Days in the country.
Another member, Sabuj Barua, 27, said that because the float was made by themselves, it took three days to complete.
"This is not supported by any corporations but from our own pockets," he said.
The members each chipped in to amass a total of RM20,000 to make the float, and those who contributed received a community shirt.
He also said that Buddhism was a minority religion in Bangladesh, making it more important for them to gather during Wesak.
"We came by ourselves to Malaysia and used to celebrate with our family at home.
"Of course I miss my family. It is difficult for us. The celebration here is different," he said.
A new member to the community, Pepos Barua, 29, said this is his first time celebrating Wesak with his fellow countrymen after 10 years in Malaysia.
"Wesak Day is very special, and I decided to come back because I miss my lord," he said.
