Bandarban, Apr 19 (V7N)- Buddhists in Bandarban celebrated Nadi Puja on Saturday morning, a traditional river worship ritual intended to ward off evil forces and usher in happiness and prosperity for all.

Organized by the Bandarban royal family, the celebrations began with a colorful procession that started from the royal palace and made its way through the city to the banks of the Sangu River in Ujani Para, the heart of Bandarban town.

The procession was led by Prince Chosing Pru Boni, son of Bomang Raja, along with royal family members, mouza headmen, para leaders, and members of the Buddhist community.

On reaching the riverbank, participants worshipped the sacred banyan tree and river waters, offering fruits, sweets, burning incense and candles while praying for the well-being of the country and all its people. Flowers were floated on a bamboo machang (platform) as part of the ritual, symbolizing purification and renewal.

The ceremony concluded with special prayers, seeking peace, health, and happiness in the Bengali New Year, and to wipe away the misfortunes of the past year.

According to local beliefs, evil forces once plagued the hills of Bandarban, bringing disease and misfortune. In response, the community began worshiping rivers to seek protection and divine blessings. Since then, Nadi Puja has been an annual tradition held in Baishakh, following the New Year and Sangraing festivals of the Marma community.

The event brings together Buddhists from across the region in a collective act of devotion, aimed at promoting communal harmony and spiritual well-being.

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