In recent days, many people have flocked to Thanh Tam Pagoda (Le Minh Xuan Commune, Binh Chanh District) to see and worship the Buddha - the sacred treasure that was sent from India to Vietnam. This is also the opening activity for the 2025 United Nations Vesak Festival series.
Despite the harsh sunshine, thousands of people here often patiently queued from the pagoda gate to the main hall area.
The organizers have arranged a resting area, distributed free water and prepared separate walkways for the elderly and the disabled. Hundreds of volunteers who are monks, Buddhist students, and local security forces were mobilized to ensure order and guide Buddhists throughout the worship process.
Ms. Nguyen Thi Hoa (58 years old, living in Tan Phu district) emotionally shared: "I heard the news from the newspaper, so I arranged my work early to come here. Although it is sunny, I feel relieved, as if I have more mental strength. This is a great blessing".
Mr. Le Van Phuoc (29 years old, from Dong Thap) who went with a group of friends to Ho Chi Minh City also had similar feelings: "We started at 3am to get up in time to worship. To feel the benefits with one's own eyes is an indescribable feeling, very sacred and profound".
To serve the growing number of people, the Organizing Committee has carefully prepared plans to coordinate the flow of people, arrange water supply areas, rest, mobile healthcare, and volunteer forces to be on duty to support continuously. In addition, parking, restroom areas, and worship guides are scientifically designed, creating favorable conditions for everyone, especially the elderly and children.
According to information from the organizing committee, after the restoration period at Thanh Tam pagoda, the relics of Buddha Shakyamuni will be offered to Ba Den mountain (Tay Ninh province) from May 8 to May 13, then continue the journey to Quan Su pagoda (Hanoi) from May 13 to May 16 and Tam Chuc pagoda (Ha Nam) from May 17 to May 21, before returning to India.
