Many activities will be held both in Bangkok and the provinces to celebrate the 8th cycle or the 96th birthday anniversary of His Holiness Somdet Phra Nyanasamvara, the Supreme Patriarch, from late September to the end of October 2009.

The Supreme Patriarch will turn 96 on October 3. For Thai people, the 8th cycle is an important milestone of life and a special celebration is usually arranged on this occasion. The Government has set up a national commission on the celebrations, chaired by the Prime Minister. The national commission has given approval to the organizing of various activities in commemoration of this auspicious occasion and as a tribute to the Supreme Patriarch.

For instance, the Office of National Buddhism will join hands with foundations, educational institutions, and government agencies in arranging Dhamma practices by 500 monks and 1,000 laymen from September 29 to October 3 at Buddhamonthon in Nakhon Pathom province. Other activities include Dhamma discussions, sermons, alms-giving, and an exhibition on the life and work of the Supreme Patriarch.

Wat Bovornnives, the residence of the Supreme Patriarch, in Bangkok, will hold special religious ceremonies and an exhibition featuring the life and work of the Supreme Patriarch from October 1 to 31. Other activities include sermons and the publishing of books and archives for this occasion.

The highlight will be on October 3, when all provinces across the country will organize several religious activities, such as merit-making ceremonies, Dhamma talks and practices, and sermons.

In order to mark the 96th birthday anniversary of the Supreme Patriarch, the World Buddhist University will organize an International Conference on Buddhism and the World Economic Crisis on October 2 at the Headquarters of the World Fellowship of Buddhists in Bangkok.

The Supreme Patriarch, Head of the Buddhist Order, is responsible for all ecclesiastical affairs of the order in Thailand. Born in Kanchanaburi province, His Holiness Somdet Phra Nyanasamvara was formerly known as Charoen Gajavatra. He was ordained as a novice when he was 14 years old and he entered into the monkhood in 1933.

His Holiness has served as the Supreme Patriarch since 1989. A highly studious person, he has always had the habit of acquiring new knowledge, especially languages. His self-study methods include reading English newspapers, listening to BBC English broadcasts, and reading English books on Buddhism. Besides English, His Holiness also studied German and French and learned Chinese. He is the first Supreme Patriarch who did not come from a royal lineage.

Recognized as one of the most important Buddhist scholars of our time, His Holiness the Supreme Patriarch has greatly contributed to Buddhist education, administration, teaching, and dissemination.

Source: The Government Public Relations Department