A Buddhist monastery in Bangladesh has gained recognition for opening its doors to the needy during Ramazan, serving as a symbol of interfaith harmony in challenging times.
For over a decade, the Dharmarajika Buddhist Monastery in Dhaka has provided free iftar meals to hundreds of the city’s most vulnerable residents during the Muslim holy month. This year, the monastery’s efforts have taken on greater significance following the political turmoil that led to the ousting of Sheikh Hasina, leaving religious minorities anxious about potential persecution.
“I live nearby and earn very little from my job. This meal is a relief,” said Moushumi Begum, one of around 200 attendees at the daily iftar. “I am grateful for their kindness and pray to God for their wellbeing.”
The monastery’s abbot, Buddha Priya Mahathero, said the tradition began in 2013 with the belief that no one fasting should be left hungry. “We have fostered a culture of harmony,” he explained. “Seeing people struggle during Ramazan inspired us to act, and this initiative has grown from there.”
Founded in 1960, well before Bangladesh’s independence, the monastery has been a longstanding symbol of religious tolerance. One of its earliest initiatives was the establishment of an interfaith orphanage for children who lost their parents in the 1971 liberation war.
Commitment to Protection and Unity
Buddhists make up about three percent of Bangladesh’s 170 million people, forming the second-largest religious minority after the Hindu community. Recent political instability has sparked concerns among minorities, particularly following attacks on Hindu households after Hasina’s removal. While authorities responded swiftly, arresting suspects and attributing some attacks to political motives, fear remains among religious minorities.
Despite the turmoil, the Dharmarajika Buddhist Monastery has remained untouched, with leaders from various political factions visiting to offer their support. “All of them pledged to protect us,” said Swarupananda Bhikkhu, a monk at the monastery. “Our gates have always been open, regardless of religious identity.”
Through their steadfast commitment to compassion and community, the monks at Dharmarajika continue to promote unity and solidarity, offering a powerful message of hope and resilience.
