On July 8 the Egituysky Datsan hosted the annual celebration of the unique Buddhist relic – Zandan Zhuu (Sandalwood Buddha). The celebration started with a prayer service during which Khambo lama Damba Ayushev, head of the traditional Buddhist Sangha of Russia, and forty rectors from all over Buryatia made a offering to the Sandalwood Buddha. The event attracted around three thousand pilgrims. Zandan Zhuu is a statue considered to have been made in Buddha’s life time and believed to have a special power, to make wishes come true and bring good luck.

Sporting contests Eryn Gurban Naadan started after the prayer service. The most entertaining and exciting event was horse racing. Athletes demonstrated their skills in archery and national Buryat martial arts. At the end of the event the audience and guests enjoyed a concert.
 Bair Tsyrenov, Director for Regional Activities with IFC METROPOL LLC which has been supporting the Egituysky Datsan for many years, said: “Events that bring together thousands of pilgrims from around the world to this sacred place to pray together and pay respect to Zandan Zhuu are very rare. No wonder all wishes are considered to come true here. We congratulate residents and guests with this important event and wish everyone prosperity and peace!”

Mr M.V. Slipenchuk, Deputy of the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation of the Sixth Calling from the Republic of Buryatia, addressed all residents of the Yeravninsky District in honor of this occasion in a telegram: “I would like to wish to the Yeravninsky District further progressive development and moving only forward, and wish to all residents-fellow countrymen good Siberian health, good spirits, creativity in all their initiatives, peace and prosperity”.

A contest of national Buryat martial arts is traditionally a part of the celebration

Audience

Bator Tsyrenov, Assistant to Deputy of the State Duma of Russia M.V. Slipenchuk, answers questions of a reporter from the Buryatia Television and Radio Broadcasting Company

METROPOL Group has been supporting the Egituysky Datsan in the Yeravinsky District for several years