President M Abdul Hamid on Saturday greeted the Buddhists on the occasion of their second largest religious festival the sacred "Prabarona Purnima to be celebrated today.
Abdul Hamid also conveyed greetings to the members of the Buddhist community on the occasion of three-month long Kathin Chibar Dan' (Yellow Robe Offering Ceremony) on the day after the Purnima.
In his message, the President said Gautom Buddha, throughout his life, preached the eternal message of equality, friendship, compassion, peace and humanity in building a peaceful world.
"Buddha's non-violent words and love of life are still widely admired around the world. His ideal of sacrifice is full of humanity," the head of the state added.
The essence of Buddhism can play an important role in establishing world peace, Abdul Hamid said.
Terming Chibar as an outfit worn by Buddhist monks, he said, adding that the 'Kathin Chibar Dan' is called the best donation (Dan-Sreshtho).
With the participation of Buddhists, this 'Kathin Chibar Dan' festival will help build unity, solidarity and harmony among all, he hoped.
He added that the 'Kathin Chibar Dan', celebrated through sacrifice, restraint, discipline and firm meditation plays an important role in turning the devotees into true followers of Buddhism.
He said that from thousands of years, Buddhist tradition is blended with the soil and people of Bangladesh.
The President described Bangladesh as a country of communal harmony and urged the people of all communities to play their respective roles to expedite the pace of national development and progress.
The President wished all programmes of Prabarona Purnima and Kathin Chibar Dan a success.
