Cultivating Affection, Fostering Harmony within Diversity

Sekolah Harapan Bangsa Modernhill successfully held a Vesak Day celebration, which was attended by all students from Kindergarten to Elementary School. Emphasizing the values of virtue, this event aimed to introduce the Buddhist teachings of loving-kindness, humility, and generosity to students from an early age.

The series of events began in the morning with preparations where all students gathered orderly on the school's tennis court. A solemn atmosphere was felt immediately as the religious activities commenced, which were divided into several main stages:

Pindapata: The students directly practiced the beauty of giving (dana) by respectfully offering food and basic necessities to the Bhikkhu.

Fangshen: As a tangible manifestation of the teachings of Metta (loving-kindness), all students joined together in the tradition of releasing living beings back into nature, teaching respect for all life.

Afterward, all students gathered in the hall for a joint Vesak celebration. The event opened with remarks from the MC, followed by a welcoming speech from the Principal, a performance about the “Sasa Jataka”, and a rendition of Buddhist songs.

A Dhamma message was then delivered by Bhikkhu Bhadra Purisa on the theme “Cultivating Affection, Fostering Harmony within Diversity.” The Bhikkhu emphasized the importance of practicing loving-kindness amidst diversity, especially within the school environment.

The event continued with the symbolic handover of donations, presented by Ms. Neneng Sahwana to Ms. Meta Setiyani, a representative from LPA Guna Nanda. Through this activity, students learned to cultivate empathy and compassion for others.

The event officially concluded with a closing prayer as an expression of gratitude for the smooth running of the celebration. Before returning to their respective classrooms, the togetherness of the day was captured in a group photo session featuring Kindergarten to Grade 6 Elementary students along with their teachers.

Meanwhile, the Buddhist students proceeded to the cafeteria area to practice offering lunch (dana) and receive a blessing. This allowed them to plant the seeds of goodness from an early age and cultivate a generous attitude.

Through this Vesak celebration at Sekolah Harapan Bangsa Modernhill, it is hoped that the virtuous values learned can be deeply ingrained in each student's character and manifested in community life.

Overall, the Vesak 2570 Buddhist Era / 2026 celebration ran smoothly and meaningfully. All students, teachers, and staff were highly cooperative and enthusiastic throughout the event.