In a strong show of solidarity and compassion, the Parbatya Bhikkhu Sangha Bangladesh, a prominent Theravada Buddhist monks' organization, has provided substantial financial assistance to the victims of the recent devastating earthquake in Myanmar.

According to a press release issued on Saturday(April 26), the organization has donated Tk 14 lakh (1.4 million taka), collected entirely from the personal contributions of its monastic members (bhikkhus), lay followers (upasakas and upasikas). The donation reflects the deep humanitarian commitment of the Buddhist community in Bangladesh towards their neighbors in need.

On April 21, a high-level delegation from the Parbatya Bhikkhu Sangha Bangladesh formally handed over the cash assistance to Myanmar’s Ambassador to Bangladesh, U Kyaw Soe Moe. During the meeting, the delegation also presented a condolence letter expressing heartfelt sympathy to the people of Myanmar affected by the earthquake.

Leading the delegation were Upa-Sangharaj Prajnananda Mahathera, President of the Sangha, along with General Secretary Pragya Jyoti Mahathera, Vice President Lokmitra Thera, Joint Secretary Sambhodhi Mahathera, Education Secretary Prajnalok Mahathera, Publicity and Publication Secretary Sangharatna Mahathera, Office Secretary Karuna Bangsha Thera, and Devaratna Thera, among others.

In the discussion, Upa-Sangharaj Prajnananda Mahathera highlighted the challenges faced by the Buddhist community in Bangladesh, particularly the scarcity of schools for studying the Tripitaka scriptures, the lack of quality Buddhist texts, and the need for meditation centers. He requested the ambassador’s support in facilitating the availability of Tripitaka texts printed in Myanmar for the use of Bangladeshi Buddhists.

In response, Ambassador U Kyaw Soe Moe expressed deep gratitude for the generous assistance and assured full cooperation in the matters raised, emphasizing the strong cultural and religious ties between Myanmar and Bangladesh’s Buddhist communities.

The earthquake in Myanmar caused significant casualties and widespread destruction, prompting humanitarian responses from various corners of the region. The timely assistance from the Parbatya Bhikkhu Sangha Bangladesh stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of compassion and mutual aid that underpins Buddhist teachings.