Taking Root —April at Arañña Saṅghārāma

Deepening practice and strengthening foundations.

April was a month of steady practice, generous support, and meaningful progress at Arañña Saṅghārāma. From the observance of the Uposatha and a weekend meditation retreat to developments in the monastery’s first kuti and opportunities to share the Dhamma beyond the monastery, many people contributed their time, energy, and goodwill. We are grateful to share some highlights from the month and to rejoice in the merits of all who have supported these activities.

Uposatha on the Full Moon

Full Moon Uposatha Observance.

On 2nd April, the Full Moon Day (Purnima), the resident Saṅgha gathered to observe the Uposatha. Following the ancient tradition established by the Blessed One, the monks assembled and recited the Pāṭimokkha, reaffirming their commitment to the Vinaya and the holy life.

The fortnightly Uposatha remains an important occasion for reflection, purification, and the strengthening of harmony within the Saṅgha.

Silent Retreat at Arañña Saṅghārāma

From 3rd to 5th April, Aranya Sangharama hosted a three-day silent retreat. Participants joined the resident monks in a schedule of meditation, chanting, mindful work, and Dhamma discussions.

A special feature of the retreat was the opportunity to accompany the monks on piṇḍapāta in the surrounding villages, allowing participants to experience an aspect of Buddhist monastic life that has remained largely unchanged for over 2,500 years.

Retreatants also visited the archaeological site of the ancient monastery, where they practised meditation amidst the peaceful surroundings of this historic region.

We were encouraged by the sincerity and dedication of the participants and look forward to welcoming future retreatants to the monastery.

Bhante Anavajjo’s Retreat in Himachal Pradesh

Bhante Anavajjo continued his solitary retreat until mid-April in the village of Salyana, Himachal Pradesh. The dwelling in which he had been residing was generously offered by Nitish, whose aspiration is that it may eventually be dedicated to the Saṅgha and serve as a place of retreat and practice for monks in the future.

Support for the Retreat

Vinay and Kalpana continued to provide invaluable support during the retreat, helping to maintain the dwelling, making regular offerings, and frequently visiting to ensure that Bhante Anavajjo’s practical needs were met. Their ongoing generosity played an important role in creating suitable conditions for practice.

Connections with the Local Community

While maintaining a simple lifestyle focused on meditation, study, and contemplation, Bhante Anavajjo also had opportunities to connect with local residents. Many villagers expressed a keen interest in learning meditation and understanding more about the monastic life. A local resident living near the dwelling became a frequent visitor, often accompanying Bhante Anavajjo on walks through the surrounding forests, where they discussed various aspects of the Dhamma and practice.These conversations provided an opportunity to share the Dhamma and introduce the activities of Arañña Saṅghārāma to the local community.

Meeting Bhante Sugat

A special highlight of the retreat was a meeting with Bhante Sugat, a solitary monk residing in the mountains above Tashi Jong Tibetan Monastery. Bhante Sugat visited Salyana on the Uposatha day and stayed overnight at Nitish’s residence. During his visit, the two monks enjoyed a lively and enriching discussion on the Pāṭimokkha and the Vinaya. Bhante Anavajjo was particularly impressed by Bhante Sugat’s detailed knowledge of the suttas and his sincere commitment to practising the Buddha’s teachings with great care and precision.

A visit with Bhante Sugat in the Himalayan foothills

The following day, Nitish and a friend offered the meal to the monks before accompanying them to Bhante Sugat’s dwelling. Situated in a secluded shed high in the mountains above Tashi Jong, the residence enjoys a cool and peaceful atmosphere and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. From there, Bhante Sugat goes on daily piṇḍapāta in a nearby Tibetan village. As the Tibetan Buddhist tradition generally does not maintain the alms-round practice, he is currently the only monk collecting alms in the area. He spoke warmly of the generosity and hospitality of the local Tibetan community, who have welcomed and supported his practice.

Encounters such as these serve as a reminder that, even in remote corners of the Himalayas, the ancient traditions of monastic training, study, and dependence on generosity continue to flourish.

Return to Arañña Saṅghārāma

In mid-April, Bhante Anavajjo concluded his retreat and returned to Arañña Saṅghārāma to assist with preparations for the Buddha Purnima retreat, scheduled to take place at the beginning of May.

Bhante Parakammo’s Surgery and Recovery

During April, Bhante Parakammo underwent knee surgery in Delhi.

We would like to express our deep gratitude to Shri Deepak Tyagi, who generously offered accommodation and helped cover many of the expenses associated with the treatment and recovery period. AVT members also contributed to meeting the surgery expenses. Sadhu Anumodana to all. Such acts of generosity provide invaluable support for the continuation of the monastic life and the preservation of the Dhamma.

Sanju accompanied Bhante Parakammo throughout his recovery, assisting with daily needs and providing practical support during this challenging period. Bhante Tissaro also spent a week in Delhi, offering companionship and assistance.

Many members of the Delhi Dhamma community visited Bhante Parakammo during his recovery, bringing encouragement, support, and goodwill. Their kindness was deeply appreciated.

We are pleased to report that Bhante Parakammo’s recovery has been progressing steadily, and we rejoice in the generosity and care shown by so many supporters.

Construction of the First Kuti

Construction work continued throughout the month on the monastery’s first kuti.

Taking Shape, One Stone at a Time.

By the end of April, the foundation and plinth had been successfully completed, marking an important milestone in the development of Arañña Saṅghārāma. While much work still lies ahead, it is encouraging to see the project steadily taking shape.

Creating Conditions for Practice.

The kuti will provide a simple and quiet dwelling for monastic practice, helping to establish the conditions for long-term meditation and study within the monastery.

We would like to thank all those whose donations, labour, expertise, and encouragement have contributed to this project.

Dhamma Gathering in the Chandigarh Tricity Area

On 26th April, Bhante Mahāpañño and Bhante Tissaro participated in a Dhamma programme held in Mohali for members of the Chandigarh-Mohali-Panchkula Dhamma community.

Coming Together in Dhamma.

Building upon the previous month’s study of the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, the gathering focused on the Anattalakkhaṇa Sutta, exploring the Buddha’s teaching on not-self as a practical path toward freedom from suffering.

The programme included the undertaking of the Five Precepts, chanting, a communal meal, Dhamma reflections, discussion, and an extended question-and-answer session. We were delighted to see both familiar faces and newcomers attending the event and engaging thoughtfully with the teachings.

Visit to Imarat Architects

The following day, Bhante Mahāpañño and Bhante Tissaro visited the offices of Imarat Architects in Chandigarh to personally express gratitude for the architectural design services that the firm had generously offered for the monastery’s kuti project.

The support of skilled professionals who freely contribute their expertise plays an invaluable role in helping the monastery develop facilities that are simple, functional, and harmonious with the surrounding environment. We are sincerely thankful for their generosity and goodwill.

Dhamma Discussion at Punjab Engineering College

Later that day, Bhante Mahāpañño and Bhante Tissaro led a Dhamma discussion at Punjab Engineering College on the theme “Investigating the Meaning of Success.”

Exploring the Meaning of Success.

The event was attended by both students and faculty members and explored questions relevant to people at all stages of life: What does genuine success mean? Can material achievement alone bring lasting fulfilment? How do wisdom, ethical conduct, and inner peace contribute to a successful life? How can we balance worldly responsibilities with spiritual development?

The discussion generated thoughtful questions and lively engagement from participants. We were encouraged by the interest shown in applying Buddhist principles to the challenges of modern life.

Rejoicing in Shared Merit

As we reflect on the month of April, we are reminded that the flourishing of the Dhamma depends upon the combined efforts of many people—monastics, volunteers, donors, retreat participants, and well-wishers.

Whether through acts of generosity, service, study, meditation, or encouragement, each contribution helps create the conditions in which the Buddha’s teachings may continue to benefit future generations.

May all who have supported the monastery in any way share in the merit of these wholesome activities.

“May you be well, peaceful, and progressing on the path to liberation”.

The Saṅgha of Arañña Saṅghārāma