Buddha Day
The Buddha Bathing Ceremony & Martsang Kagyu Special Buddhist Protector God Puja
The Martsang Kagyu UK Buddhist Centre is honored to host the Buddha Bathing Ceremony in celebration of the birth of the Buddha. This sacred occasion invites all to come together in reverence of the Buddha’s life, teachings, and wisdom, fostering a deeper connection with compassion and mindfulness. On this special day, His Holiness Gangri Karma Rinpoche will lead a Blessing Puja, offering prayers and blessings for the well-being and benefit of all attendees.
This occasion provides an opportunity for individuals to immerse themselves in Buddhist culture, experience compassion firsthand, and engage in meaningful conversations with fellow participants. By bringing people together, we aim to create a harmonious environment where cultural exchange, mutual understanding, and collective well-being can thrive—enriching the community as a whole.
May 2025
The Buddha’s Birthday is a significant celebration for Buddhists around the world. Since ancient times, Buddhists have honored this day by pouring fragrant water over a statue of Prince Siddhartha three times, a tradition that originates from the story of his birth. According to Buddhist teachings, Prince Siddhartha was born in the State of Shakya to Queen Mayadevi. Upon his birth, he is said to have taken seven steps, pointed to the sky, and declared:
"I am superior in this world."
The Seven steps mean, He is guiding us towards the higher realm called Pure land which is other than six classes of beings or realms.
“I am superior in this world” means, so far in this world there is no scholar who did research and analysis about the suffering and way of getting out from it, other than Buddha himself. Therefore, he is superior.
When he was born, deva and humans offered rain of flowers and rinsed him. Buddhists would hold a Buddha Bathing Ceremony on the birthday of the Buddha to express the people's celebration of the birth of the Buddha and their need and respect for the Buddha's teachings. Make a vow to learn Buddhism and protect Dharma and pray for purity and good fortune.
The Festival celebrates the birth of Buddha and the diversity of our multicultural and multi-faith society, through a curated programme offering traditional Buddhist Ceremonies, and activations, music, spiritual wellbeing puja, and blessing ceremonies. We will pray for peace and harmony in our lives and on Earth.
We welcome everyone—regardless of background, faith, or culture—to take part in this sacred and uplifting occasion. May the Buddha’s blessings bring peace, health, and happiness to all.
Date: Sunday 31st May 2026
Time:11:30am
- Martsang Kagyu Special Buddhist Protector Puja
-Oral transmission the Buddha mantra
-Bathing of the Buddha Dharma Service
-Flowers, Candle offering to Buddha
-Blessing
-Meditation
-Refreshments- Famous Asian cake may provided
Venue: Camden Chinese Community Centre,
9 Tavistock Pl, London WC1H 9SN
Booking by email: london@martsangkagyu.org
Free Entry. We also provide free flowers and candles for participants to offer to Buddha.
Donations are welcome.
‘This fantastic event allowed us to engage in meaningful conversations with a diverse group of residents, make new friends, and share valuable experiences. We also had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the beautiful Buddhist culture while enjoying delicious Malaysian snacks. It was a wonderful experience that brought people together and created lasting memories."
~ Angie 4th May 2025
April 2024