Crowds gather at Tay Thien Grand Mandala Stupa for Vu Lan Festival

More than 2,000 Buddhists, monks and nuns gathered at Tay Thien Grand Mandala Stupa on August 19 for Vu Lan Festival, taking part in ceremonies honoring parents, ancestors, teachers and the nation. More than 2,000 Buddhists, monks, nuns and members of the Drukpa Lineage gathered at Tay Thien Grand Mandala Stupa in Dai Dinh Commune for a series of Vu Lan ceremonies on the afternoon of Aug. 19. The assembly was presided over by Kyabje Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche, alongside venerable monks and nuns. Participants lit candles to reflect on their gratitude toward the Three Jewels (the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha) and spiritual teachers, parents and ancestors, as well as the homeland, nation and those who have sacrificed for peace. Thousands of candles were placed in lotus-shaped holders during the ceremony, creating a solemn scene. In Buddhism, the lotus is commonly associated with purity, enlightenment and an awakened mind. Nguyen Bao Tram, 11, and Phung Khanh Van, 12, said the ceremony helped them better understand gratitude and appreciate those who have supported and cared for them. More than 100 devotees also took part in a Refuge in the Three Jewels ceremony in the afternoon. The participants from different cities and provinces formally expressed their commitment to Buddhist practice in the presence of the Guru and the Lineage Sangha. More than 100 devotees also took part in a Refuge in the Three Jewels ceremony in the afternoon. The participants from different cities and provinces formally expressed their commitment to Buddhist practice in the presence of the Guru and the Lineage Sangha. More than 100 devotees also took part in a Refuge in the Three Jewels ceremony in the afternoon. The participants from different cities and provinces formally expressed their commitment to Buddhist practice in the presence of the Guru and the Lineage Sangha. After more than 10 years of practicing Buddhism, sisters Tran Phuong Thao, 26, and Tran Ha Phuong, 20, (front, left) described the ceremony as an important milestone. They received Dharma names following the ceremony, marking a new stage in their spiritual practice. Earlier in the morning, thousands of devotees participated in a life-release ritual, a Buddhist practice associated with compassion and respect for living beings. Earlier in the morning, thousands of devotees participated in a life-release ritual, a Buddhist practice associated with compassion and respect for living beings. Earlier in the morning, thousands of devotees participated in a life-release ritual, a Buddhist practice associated with compassion and respect for living beings. Another solemn event was the Bell Tolling ceremony, presided over by Kyabje Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche. The bell was rung as prayers were offered for peace and prosperity, the well-being of people, the peaceful transition of the departed, the flourishing of the Dharma and happiness for all sentient beings. A ceremonial lion-and-drum performance featuring traditional Vietnamese drums and dragon dances added a vibrant cultural element to the gathering. His Eminence Kyabje Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche presiding over practice empowerment and prayer for peace and prosperity. Video by Loc Chung