VietNamNet Bridge – A series of spiritual and cultural events will get underway in Ho Chi Minh City on May 16-24 to celebrate the 2,557th birthday of Buddha and 50 years since Bodhisattva Thich Quang Duc burned himself to protest the war in Vietnam.

The event launching press conference. (Photo: VNA)

Venerable Thich Nhat Tu, head of the Culture Department under the Ho Chi Minh City Buddhist Sangha said an exhibition and book fair featuring Buddhist culture and fine art heritages will be held at Xa Loi Pagoda in district 3 from May 17-24.

The pagoda will also host lectures on various topics like Buddhism’s non-violence, and Vietnam’s Buddhism heritage and rituals.

Meanwhile, another exhibition on Buddhist culture will be held at Pho Quang Pagoda on May 16-24, and a ceremony commemorating Bodhisattva Thich Quang Duc will take place at a memorial park dedicated to him in district 3.

A music show in district 10 on May 17 is expected to draw 3,000 participants, during which 10 Buddhism records of Vietnam will be announced.

On May 23, 32 flower carriages will parade along the city thoroughfares. Five boats adorned with flowers will sail along Saigon River in procession and five giant lotuses in front of Quan Am Monastery in Phu Nhuan District will be lightened on May 17.

Source: Vietnam Plus