Pune Resonates with Devotion During ‘Tufanatli Dive’ Dhamma Sandhya on Buddha Purnima

Pune, May 15, 2025 — On the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima, Pune witnessed a mesmerizing evening titled ‘Tufanatli Dive’ (Lamps in the Storm), organized by the Vishwabhushan Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Cultural Festival Committee. The event, held at the Tathagat Gautam Buddha Vipassana Vihar near General Joshi Gate of Savitribai Phule Pune University, drew a large gathering of devotees and dignitaries, celebrating the teachings and legacy of Lord Buddha.

Soulful Performances Illuminate the Evening

Renowned folk singers Dr. Ganesh Chandanshive and Ajay Dehade captivated the audience with their powerful renditions of Dhamma and Bhim Geet. Their performances included poignant songs like “Ujaad Rani Kimaya Kelis Mothi,” “Bheema Tuj Pranam Koti-Koti,” and “Gautam Buddhacha Sandesh Sangu Chala Re,” which resonated deeply with the attendees. The duo’s soulful voices, complemented by a skilled ensemble of musicians, created an atmosphere of spiritual reflection and unity.

Distinguished Guests and Community Leaders in Attendance

The event was graced by several notable figures, including Savitribai Phule Pune University’s Pro-Vice Chancellor Parag Kalkar, Dr. Vijay Khare, Jitendra Panpatil, and Satyam Gade. Leaders from various Buddhist Vihars in Pune, along with political and social dignitaries, were also present, underscoring the event’s significance in the city’s cultural and spiritual landscape.

Organizers Highlight the Importance of Cultural Platforms

In his address, Dr. Ganesh Chandanshive emphasized the role of Pune as a cultural capital and lauded the efforts of Parshuram Wadekar in providing platforms for artists and writers from the Ambedkarite movement. He acknowledged initiatives like ‘Dhamma Pahat,’ ‘Dhamma Sandhya,’ and the ‘Samyak Sahitya Sammelan’ as vital in promoting the teachings of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar and Lord Buddha.

Culmination with Community Engagement

The evening concluded with the distribution of ‘kheer’ (sweet rice pudding) as prasad to all attendees, symbolizing communal harmony and shared spiritual nourishment. The event’s success was attributed to the dedicated efforts of the committee’s office bearers and volunteers, with Deepak Mhaske serving as the master of ceremonies.

Buddha Purnima: A Day of Reflection and Celebration

Buddha Purnima, observed on May 12 this year, commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and Mahaparinirvana (passing away) of Lord Gautama Buddha. Celebrated across India and other parts of Asia, the day is marked by prayers, meditation, and cultural programs that honor Buddha’s teachings of compassion, mindfulness, and inner peace.

In Pune, events like ‘Tufanatli Dive’ serve as a testament to the city’s rich cultural tapestry and its commitment to preserving and promoting spiritual traditions that foster community engagement and personal growth.