DHARAMSHALA: The Indo-Tibetan Friendship Association, Shimla celebrated Buddha Purnima Divas at the Jonang Takten monastery. Over 2,500 people assembled at the monastery to celebrate the occasion which commemorates the birth, enlightenment (nirvana), and death of Lord Buddha.

The chief guest at the occasion was Shri. Ravi Thakur, member of Himachal Pradesh state legislative assembly. The guests of honour at the event were Mr. Tashi Namgyal Shanu, member of Minorities Commission and Shri. A.D.N Bajpai, Vice-Chancellor of Himachal University.

Those who spoke at the celebration include Shri. V.S Negi, President of the Indo-Tibetan Friendship Association and a Hindu spiritual teacher from a nearby temple.

Monks presented Cham dances and, Himalayan and Tibetan students presented cultural performances.