Cox’s Bazar, Oct 18 (V7N)- The Buddhist community in Cox’s Bazar celebrated the grand conclusion of the Prabarana festival with the traditional floating of the Kalpa ship on Friday afternoon at Kavita Chatwar Point on Cox’s Bazar beach. The joyous event, which took place under tight security, saw large crowds gather to partake in the festivities, particularly drawing in younger members of the community.

In keeping with the significance of the occasion, two Kalpa ships from Rakhine neighborhoods of Cox’s Bazar city were floated this year, a slight decrease from the three ships that participated last year. The festival, known for its colorful displays and spiritual importance, also attracted people from various religions, turning the occasion into a symbol of harmony and unity.

Security was heightened around the event, with both police and military personnel present to ensure the safety of attendees. The Kalpa ship floating ceremony, steeped in religious and historical symbolism, marks the end of the Prabarana Utsav, one of the most significant religious festivals for Buddhists.

The tradition behind the Kalpa ship stems from an ancient Buddhist story. When Mahamati Buddha traveled from Rajgriha to Vaishali, the Naga people, with miraculous abilities, wished to honor him. According to Buddhist texts, 500 Nagarajas of Nagaloka spread their righteous hoods over 500 monks in tribute. Witnessing this, the gods of Devaloka and the Brahmas of Brahmaloka also came to worship Buddha. This auspicious moment is memorialized through the Kalpa ship floating festival.

The Ramu Buddhist sect of Bangladesh, particularly in Cox’s Bazar, continues this tradition to honor the eternal memory of the Buddha’s journey. Each year, the Kalpa ships are floated in the Bankkhali river during Prabarana Purnima, keeping alive the spiritual heritage of the Buddhist community.

Cox’s Bazar’s upazila executive officer, Md. Rabiul Islam, confirmed that the celebration took place in a festive and peaceful atmosphere, with strict security measures to ensure public safety.

The Prabarana festival is a momentous occasion for Buddhists, and the Kalpa ship floating tradition remains one of the most anticipated events, drawing both locals and tourists to witness the symbolic spectacle.

END/SHM/AJ