Thai Buddhists hold peace march in Bodhgaya

Buddhists from Thailand held a march for world peace in Bodhgaya.

The delegation included several celebrities and movie stars from Thailand including an industrialist Danai Chanchaochai, television personalities from their most watched 'Channel 3' among others.Chanchaochai said the march was not just for peace in Thailand, but for the entire humanity.

"We have carried the procession starting from the Gaya statue about one kilometre in order to bring peace, love and happiness not only to the Thai people but also Indian people and also to the people worldwide, humanity because the Buddha is known for his love, peace for all human beings," said Chanchaochai.

Buddhists believe that the Buddha, "the awakened", to the laws of the universe, which are said to be operating eternally.

Buddhist scriptures describe Bodh Gaya as the "Navel of the Earth", where pilgrims and tourists from Sri Lanka, China, Japan and the entire of southeastern Asia throng to this holiest of Buddhist shrines every year.

After the march a robe ceremony was conducted, where the royal robes of King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand were presented to the royal Thai temple in Bodhgaya.

"Today is very special occasion because his majesty the King Bhumibol of Thailand has graciously granted the Kathina robes (royal robes) offering for the royal Thai temple in Bodhgaya," said Chanchaochai.

This special ceremony of sacred Robe offering is held in the Theravadin tradition of Buddhism, after completion of the Four months' Rain Retreat by the monks.