Since early morning, thousands of monks, nuns, Buddhists, locals and tourists have flocked to Thanh Tam Pagoda to pay homage to the Buddha's relics - the national treasure of India. The streets around the pagoda such as Tran Van Giau, Le Dinh Chi, Le Chinh Dang (Binh Chanh District, Ho Chi Minh City) are packed with people. Despite the wait, everyone was still excited and eager to enter the worship area.

Ms. Tran Thi Thu Ha (Dong Nai) said that she and her family set off at 3:30 a.m. to pay homage to the Buddha's relics at Thanh Tam Pagoda. "The whole family was very excited to see them for the first time. Even though many people came early, everyone lined up in an orderly manner to wait inside," Ms. Ha shared.

According to the Organizing Committee, the Buddha relic worship will take place from May 3 to 8 at Thanh Tam Pagoda (Binh Chanh District), from 6am to 11:30am in the morning and from 1:30pm to 9pm in the afternoon. People do not need to register in advance, just come to the waiting room for instructions.

According to the Organizing Committee, all visitors to the Buddha's relics do not have to pay a fee, bring wreaths, offerings or perform worship rituals at the place of worship. Visitors must follow instructions, line up in an orderly manner, remain silent, and not take photos or film without permission. Children under 2 years old, people with poor health or wearing inappropriate clothing will not be allowed to enter. Visitors are advised to limit the number of bags and backpacks they carry and not bring weapons, explosives, food, drinks or items that cause insecurity, disorder, or affect the safety and solemnity of the place of worship.

According to Most Venerable Thich Duc Thien, the 2025 United Nations Day of Vesak has special significance as it takes place in the atmosphere of the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification. This is the fourth time Vietnam has hosted and the first time it is held in Ho Chi Minh City. Through this event, the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha wishes to introduce to international friends the image of a peaceful, developed country, friendly people and the accompanying role of Buddhism in the development of the nation.

In addition, some cultural activities within the framework of the Great Festival include: Art programs at Lang Le Park and Sala Theater, exhibition of images of Buddhist antiques recognized as National Treasures, the ceremony of raising the Great Buddhist Flag by hot air balloon...

Below are some pictures from the Buddha's relic worship ceremony at Thanh Tam Pagoda:

Source: https://hanoimoi.vn/tp-ho-chi-minh-dong-dao-tang-ni-phat-tu-chiem-bai-xa-loi-duc-phat-701094.html