Devotees gather at Rajban Vihar to celebrate 107th birth anniversary of revered monk Bana Bhante. Photo : BSS

RANGAMATI, Jan 8, 2026 (BSS) – Thousands of devotees from different communities thronged Rajban monastery (vihar) in Rangamati today to observe the 107th birth anniversary of the most revered Buddhist monk, arahant and enlightened one  Sreemat Sadhanananda Mahasthabir widely known as Bana Bhante.

From early morning, people from all walks of life placed wreaths at Bana Bhante’s mortal remains preserved in a special casket at the monastery since his death on January 30, 2012.

General Secretary of the Rajban Vihar Management Committee Amiya Khisa told BSS that a seven-day-long programme has been chalked out marking the occasion.

Various rites, including Panchashil (precepts)   prayers and other offerings, were held at the vihar premises, while chief abbot of the monastery venerable Prajnalankar Mahasthabir delivered religious sermons.

BNP leader Dipen Dewan, Buddhist monks and thousands of devotees attended the programmes, praying for, amity, compassion peace and prosperity of the nation   as well as global peace.

Bana Bhante was born on January 8, 1920, in Rangamati and attained the great passing away (Mohaparinirvana) on January 30, 2012, at the age of around 93.