Assam: Buddhist monks, devotees gather for inauguration of Powaimukh Monastery in Margherita

Powaimukh village in Margherita under Tinsukia district witnessed a spiritual and cultural event with the inauguration of the newly constructed Powaimukh Buddha Vihar alongside the celebration of a two-day Buddha Vihar Daanutsav. The festival brought together Buddhist monks, devotees, and community members from across Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.

The event began in the morning of November 1 with the hoisting of the World Buddhist Flag by Itika Mahathera Sanghanayaka of the Purbanchal Bhikkhu Sangha and the All Assam Buddhist Association. The newly built monastery was formally inaugurated by Weria Bhikkhu, President of the Purbanchal Bhikkhu Sangha. The program also included Mangalacharan (auspicious chanting), a felicitation ceremony, the unveiling of a commemorative volume, and an open session.

The open session was chaired by Gyanopal Mahathera, President of the All Assam Buddhist Association, and attended by Margherita MLA Bhaskar Sharma, alongside a host of revered Buddhist monks. The event was further enriched by a group song performance by Tai Khamyang women, showcasing their cultural heritage.

Constructed with a total cost of Rs 50 lakh, sourced from the Assam Government’s untied fund through the initiative of Margherita MLA Bhaskar Sharma, the Powaimukh Buddha Vihar stands as a new symbol of faith and cultural identity for the Tai Khamyang community.

During the ceremony, the celebration committee felicitated MLA Bhaskar Sharma, along with his wife and daughter, in recognition of his efforts. Speaking to the media, Sharma highlighted that the Margherita constituency has long been a hub of Buddhist heritage and tourism potential. He added that future plans are underway to develop Buddhist tourism centres in Powaimukh and other Buddhist-inhabited villages using government and MLA funds.