December 03-- GEORGE TOWN: PU Xian Temple on Jalan Bukit Dumbar was a hive of activities recently. Organised by the Pu Xian Buddhist Association, the kathina ceremony of offering robes to the monks was the highlight of the day's programme which began after sunrise at the temple.
In its eighth year, the celebrations kicked off with a procession led by 20 trishaws to ferry the elderly throughout the 2km journey in Jalan Jelutong.
Hundreds of devotees accompanied the procession, which started and ended at the temple which was built in 1978.
Association chairman Cheang Chee Gooi said the celebrations was on a bigger scale this year.
The offerings of the robes to the monks is the highlight of today's programme followed by the chanting of mantras led by several monks, offerings of prayers and devotion to the emerald Buddha.
The association has always aimed to propagate Buddhism which espouses tolerance, peace, respect for the elders and religious harmony, said Cheang, who is also Paya Terubong Federal Village and Security Development Committee (JKKKP) chairman.
Cheang also noted the importance of learning virtues and the need for prayers and inculcating good behaviour at a young age.
The temple, also known as Samantabhadra Vihara, was started by two young men -- Tan Kooi Beng and Yeoh Chin Beng -- who formed a society to pay homage to Buddha and propagate Buddhism.
The temple has expanded over the years with support from other Buddhists and well-wishers.
The temple is located on both sides of the road, with the education centre on one side with a seated Buddha and the temple building with the standing Buddha on the other.
Other regular activities at the temple are Buddhist Youth Society gatherings and a Sunday school. It also houses an Aixin library and a study centre.