(VOVworld) – 4,000 monks, nuns, and Buddhist followers in the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau paid tribute this week to martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Vietnam’s independence. This was part of their celebration of 2014 Vesak Day, a 2-day observation of Buddha's Birth, Enlightenment, and Passing away. The Executive Board of the Ba Ria-Vung Tau Buddhist Sangha presented gifts to 20 beneficiary families and showcased 100 old Buddha statues at Lam Son stadium.      

In the central province of Quang Nam, calligrapher Anh Quan, whose religious name is Thich Tinh Tri, demonstrated a sutra called “the Heart of Perfect Wisdom” on the biggest wooden board ever in Vietnam (4 meters in length and 1 meter in width). Locals were treated to 300 paintings and calligraphic works by 100 painters featuring the lotus, a common symbol of Buddhism.

Calligrapher Anh Quang demonstrates the sutra on wooden board. (Photo: baoquangnam.com.vn)

The northern mountain province of Thai Nguyen hosted a Vesak celebration on Tuesday.

The same events were observed in India and Laos where Vietnamese Buddhist followers prayed for peace for the nation and happiness for the people.

This year’s Vesak festival celebrated Lord Buddha's 2558th birthday.