40th Annual Sangha Kanto Poi-2025 celebrated with great devotion in Arunachal's Ninggrang Village

The serene village of Ninggrang in Miao subdivision of Arunachal Pradesh came alive with spiritual fervour as thousands of Buddhist devotees gathered for the two-day 40th Annual Sangha Kanto Poi-2025, organized by the Kalasuka Group under the banner of the Purbanchal Buddha Samity.

The grand event, held on November 3 and 4, witnessed the participation of over 100 Buddhist monks, Shramans, and nearly 10,000 Upasakas and Upasikas (devotees) from across Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, making it one of the largest annual Buddhist congregations in the region.

The celebrations commenced on Monday, November 3, with the hoisting of the World Buddhist Flag, followed by Zau-Sangkham and Dara Thom rituals. The day also marked the inauguration of the Kathin Civar Daan Utsav, a traditional ceremony of offering robes to monks.

The first day concluded with the Delegate Session of the Purbanchal Bhikkhu Sangha and Purbanchal Buddha Samity, where senior monks and representatives deliberated on spiritual and community initiatives.

On Tuesday, the second day began with the group flag hoisting, followed by the Kathin Civar Daan, Fra and Patesha Procession, and Dara Thom/Dhamma Sabha, where devotees engaged in prayers, chanting, and discourses on the Dhamma.

The highlight of the event was the Sangha Kanto ceremony and the retreat of the World Buddhist Flag, which was ceremonially handed over to representatives of the next organizing group for the 2026 celebration. The two-day festival concluded with a vibrant cultural night, showcasing traditional performances and songs symbolizing peace and unity.

The Purbanchal Buddha Samity comprises six groups—Kalasuka, Ajasatru, Ashoka, Wathagamini, Dhaamika, and Mendung. Each year, one group hosts the Sangha Kanto Poi celebration, and this year, the responsibility was shouldered by the Kalasuka Group, which successfully organized the 40th edition at Ninggrang village.

The event emphasized the teachings of Lord Buddha and highlighted the unity of Buddhist communities across the Northeast, reinforcing values of compassion, service, and mindfulness.