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Buddhists Celebrate 'Asalha Puja'

Hindus today sent greetings to Buddhist communities worldwide for the upcoming Asalha-Puja/Asanha-Puja/Asalha-Pucha/Asarnha-Bucha/Dhamma/Dharma Day, which falls on July 15 this year.

Hindu statesman Rajan Zed today expressed his warmest greetings on behalf of Hindu community on Buddhist celebration of Asalha Puja. He wished them peace, blessings and joy to all the Buddhists.

Rajan Zed stressed that all religions should work together for a just and peaceful world. Dialogue would bring mutual enrichment.

Asalha Puja commemorates the Buddha's First Sermon and establishment of Buddhism. It expounded Four Noble Truths- Dukkha (suffering), Samudaya (Arising), Nirodha (Cessation), Magga (Path); and Noble Eightfold Path: Right-View, Resolve, Speech, Action, Livelihood, Effort, Mindfulness, Meditation. It is observed by listening to sermons, paying homage to Buddha, offerings to temples and giving alms.

Buddhism is the fourth largest religion of the world. It is based on teachings attributed to Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha, the Awakened One). Hinduism is the oldest and third largest religion of the world. It has about one billion adherents and moksh (liberation) is its ultimate goal.