The Buddhist Community Centre (BCC) UK warmly welcomed and honored Harka Raj Sampang Rai, the Mayor of Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City, during his visit to the United Kingdom. On Sunday, 20th October, a special event was held at the BCC UK monastery in Aldershot, where BCC UK President Harka Bahadur Gurung and Chief Mother Jagna Gurung, among others, welcomed Mayor Sampang with a traditional ceremonial scarf (khada).
Two years ago, Sampang was elected as mayor with an overwhelming majority as an independent candidate, defeating contenders from major political parties including the Nepali Congress and CPN-UML. Since taking office, Mayor Sampang has prioritized addressing public concerns and has been actively involved in the development of the city. In recognition of his contributions, BCC UK organized the welcome and felicitation ceremony.
During the event, BCC UK President Harka Bahadur Gurung spoke about the founding of BCC UK and the various religious services it provides to devotees. He warmly welcomed Mayor Sampang and also announced a donation of NPR 100,000 to support the various projects being carried out under the mayor’s leadership.
Mayor Sampang lit a ceremonial lamp at the event and expressed his gratitude to BCC UK for the meaningful meeting, the time spent, and the honor bestowed upon him. He emphasized the importance of practicing the teachings of Buddha in daily life.
The event coincided with a three-day Phowa practice (a Tibetan Buddhist ritual), and was attended by many devotees. Religious figures present included Dorje Lungrik Rinpoche from Shechen Monastery, Head Lama Khenpo Shenang Tamang of the BCC monastery, Lopen Dawa, Lopen Norbu, Lama Harkajung, and Lama Pradeep.
Also in attendance were BCC UK founding president Lepten Kaji Sherpa, former presidents Lepten Narayan Prasad Gurung MBE, Naresh Gurung, Dharma Tamang, London branch head Gopal Tamang, former chief mothers Pushpa Gurung and Urmila Gurung, along with other mothers, advisors, and officials of the organization.
The program was chaired by BCC UK President Harka Bahadur Gurung and conducted by General Secretary Major Hitman Gurung.
It is worth noting that just three weeks ago, BCC UK also hosted and honored Rastriya Prajatantra Party Chairman Rajendra Lingden, party spokesperson Gyanendra Shahi, and others.
