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The Chakma News Prospector

Front Page Free Distribution Worldwide

Most Highest Holiness Bana Bhante’s 91st Birth Anniversary Issue; January 8, 2009; Volume 1, Issue 1
Newspaper
English : Periodical What about the Chakma News Prospector (CNP) and why ? The CNP is a newspaper designated; will
Established: January 8, 2009 try to provide news information on Political, Religious, Socio-Cultural, History, Sports, Educations, Ad-
ventures, New Discoveries, etc. of the Chakma Nation around the Globe. Today on January 8, 2010 is it
foundation day on the Event of Most Highest Holiness Enlightened Venerable Sadhanananda Ma-
hathera (Bana Bhante) 91st Birth Day. Since May 8, 2009, the newsletter ALAAM is providing news
information both in English, Bengali and Chakma Scriptures. But, from today it is going to be sepa-
Inside rated. The CNP will try to provide news in English and others Scriptures and ALAAM will be provide
1-2
● Enlightened news mostly in Chakma Scriptures. But, they will walk, run and fly together in different corner of the
Forest Monk world like twin sisters.
Reason why? An ALAAM will play important role on Chakma Scriptures to create leadership for future
● Bodhgaya generation which is very important. Both CNP and ALAAM are producing and publishing by Chakma
Temple Lega Publication, Australia (CLPA).
● Raja new 3 Jummaland (UJI): The Jumma- rest 10% (Baruas) living in
Asia Expert land (Chittagong Hill Tracts) is Enlightened Chakma the plain districts. They all
● Monk Presi- situated in the South-Eastern are the followers of the
part of the Bangladesh. The to-
Forest Monk Theravada Traditional Bud-
dential Poll
tal population of Buddhists is dhism.
● Enlightened nearly 3 millions roughly. They
4 Most Highest Holiness Ven-
Forest Monk are Chakmas, Tanchangyas,
erable Sadhanananda Ma-
● Rega Mros or Murungs, Chaks,
hathera is well known as
Marmas, and Baruas. The Chak-
● Buddhist “Bana Bhante” which means
mas, Tanchangyas, Mros,
Temple in Forest Monk. Prior of his
Chaks and Marmas are living in
France re ce ive Novice Mo n k
5
Jummaland since pre-historic
(Shramanera) Ordination; his
● Raja in Den- periods. The Tanchanyas,
house-hold name was Mr.
Chaks and Mros are the sub-
mark Ratindra Chakma. He was
tribe of Chakmas. Approxi-
● Buddhist born on January 8, 1920 at
mately, 90% of Buddhists
the Dhanapata, Moroghona
Trains ( C h a k m a s , T an c h an g y a s ,
6 village of Maghban Mouza
Chaks, Mros and Marmas) are
● Australian under the Rangamati juris-
living in the Jummaland and the
Buddhists diction, the then Chakma
● Bana Bhante Royal Kingdom (now Jummaland or Chittagong Hill Tracts, Bangladesh). Later, the Moroghona village
Contribution along with thousands of Jumma villages as well as Chakma Royal Palace was sub-
7
● YCA Confer- merged under the water by the Kaptai Hydro-Electrical Project in 1964-65. Mr.
ence Ratindra belongs from middle class family of Chakma Nation.
His father name was Mr. Haru Mohan Chakma and mother Mrs.
● Pali College Birpudi Chakma. He was the eldest son of his parents. He has
● Forest Mon- 8 four brothers and one sister.
asteries Since his early life, Mr. Ratindra was very gentle, honest, polite, kind, noble, and
religious. Occasionally, he used to practice meditation in a secluded place in the
midst of his works and studies. He was educated up to class four standards only from
their village primary school. As he was not interested in general study, he gives up
for further education. Even, he is not interest to join with others children to play. In
comparison to others, he was different by nature and was averse to enjoying pleasure and comfort.
However, he would spend most of his time in studying history, science, literature, religious books and
Wishing Happy the books relating to the biographies of the famous writers, poets, philosophers, and scientists. He was
New Year 2010 read life story of the famous authors like Poet Rabindra Nath Tagore, Kamini Roy, and even Ramayana
By CLPA and Mahabharata. He earned an enormous inspiration for the future course of life through the reading
of books. But, he also interested to watching the dramas and theatres and listening the Folklore
Notice (Kabigaan) in the village. He was deeply thinking after listening and watching it. He realized that the
Next Issue: Chakma life is just like a drama with full of suffering.
New Year Eva One day in 1924, at the age of five, Mr. Ratindra was meditating in a secluded place and suddenly
called “Bizu” on visions arise to him. After a while vision was disappeared and then he was clearly realized and
April 15, 2010.
Continues to page 2…..
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Visit Google Search: Voice of Jummaland; E-mail: clpublication@yahoo.com.au or alaam@writeme.com
The Chakma News Prospector Page 2
Continues from page 1…...
Enlightened Monk answer it. He determined that he have to go
for searching the Spiritual Wisdom by him-
understood about the vision which is the sign sible to achieve self. He asks the permission from his Precep-
of the light of wisdom. Since then, he practice spiritual wisdom? tor to leave Nandan Kanan in order to find out
meditation frequently in secluded place, Shaving head, wear- it. So, after got permission, he decided to
whenever gets chance. ing saffron robes and leave Nandan Kanan at the end of 1949 and
In around 1940-41, Mr. Ratindra was an em- wandering here and went to Chitmorong Buddhist Temple, one of
“So, ployee by Mr. Biraj Mohan Dewan in a shop at there is no use, if I the oldest Temple in
Rangamati Bazar. During those days Mr. De- unable to achieve Chakma Royal Kingdom.
that was supreme wisdom. He During his stay at there,
wan was Headman as well as landlord. Even
the first though, never happy with his wealthy and al- also remarks on his he was asked the same
ways express unsatisfactory and suffered men- Preceptor that- questions to the Chief Ab-
“Psychi “Preceptor always bot of the Temple, what
tally. Mr. Ratindra carefully observes and
c remarks on Mr. Dewan opinions and expres- expresses by himself he was asked to his Preceptor. The Chief Ab-
- oh! Suffering; oh! bot also failed to answer. Instead of that- he
Power” sions. Very suffering; oh! comment to him, “It is not easy, it is very dif-
shown When turned 29 years old, Mr. Ratindra was Life is full of suffer- ficult and impossible task that for ordinary
faced one of the remarkable episode in his life ing; and so on”. But, monks and novices like you and me to
by the – which is given an opportunity to renounced
Ven. Ratindra did achieve that goal”. After few months there,
Bana the world. It was an eleven year old girl, the not understand that Ven. Ratindra left the temple and took shel-
only children of their parent suddenly died in his Preceptor‟s suf- ter in the dense forest. After wandering a
Bhante their village. All of her relatives and villagers
fering means. He month, he arrived at Dulyasuri Buddhist Tem-
to the came and get together. The dead body was think that- his Pre- ple. Even there, he failed to find the suitable
kept aside near the veranda. On the other- ceptor is highly edu- secluded place for him to meditate. After a
public, hand, the parent and relatives of the dead
cated, scholar, month later, he left the Dulyasuri and went
most body‟s crying loudly. Sometimes hitting their teacher, highly re- Reingkyan Kengrasuri Buddhist Temple un-
fore-head; sometime hitting their head with spected and promi- der the Bilaisuri Police Station. He did not
probably
trees, sometimes hitting their chest, sometime nent monk. What he have any suitable and secluded place there
it was become senseless, etc. A young Ratindra is doesn‟t have? What too. After few weeks, he decided to wander
watching carefully all this scenarios silently he want? Why ex- again in order to find a suitable place for
happene
from one side. He realized that one day, he has pressing suffering? practice. So, he was many places, such as
d after to die like this girl and also have to cry like her Betagi Aranya Kutir, Rauzan, and Kaptai
parents and relatives. After watching this epi- One day, Ven. Rat-
8/9 dense forest, etc. as a wandering ascetic nov-
sode, he strongly determined that he will not indra went to meet
to his Preceptor. He ice monk before reaching Dhanapata.
months be joining in the worldly life. He will renounce
pays homage to him, Before Dhanapata, Ven. Ratindra achieves
of his the world for searching the truth of this suffer-
ing like the Enlightened One. after that he sit one some sort sainthood during his wandering
Novice- side with join palm periods in the dense forest. We can say, First
After few days of that episode, Mr. Ratindra and ask a question. Psychic Power – while he was living in the
hood”. decided to meet Ven. Dipankar Srigyan Ma-
Bhante! Can you tell dense forest in between Dhanapata and Ko-
hathera, who was Chief Abbot of the Nandan me-What is and how salyagona areas. On one remarkable night, it
Kanan Buddhist Temple, Chittagong (here Ma- is feeling of was heavily rain with strong storms and thun-
“So, hathera is pali and “Spiritual Wisdom”? dered in those areas where he uses to live. In
firmly Mahasthavir is Ben- His Preceptor re- the morning, he came nearest village is
gali. I prepare Pali). plied! Ven. Ratin- called Chongrasuri for alms-round with fully
decided
By the help of Dr. dra, I did not dried robes. When see him without any
not to Gajendra Lal Barua, achieve that goal. I sign of wets in his robes, the villager became
move
he met Ven. Ma- do not have any surprised. The villagers started talking each
hathera and was or- ideas about it. So, I other about him. Later, the news had spread
anywher dained as a Novice monk (Shramanera) under am sorry. After got all over. So, that was the first “Psychic
e any him in 1949 at the age of 29; which was full unsatisfactory an- Power” shown by the Ven. Ratindra to the
moon day in the month of March. His Novice- swered from his Pre- public, most probably it was happened after
more hood named was given Ven. Ratindra Shra-
ceptor; Ven. Ratin- 8/9 months of his Novice-hood.
until manera by his Preceptor. dra started thinking
deeply and realized When Ven. Ratindra arrived at
and During his stay at Nandan Kanan, Ven. Ratin- Dhanapata in end of 1949, he
dra was diligently studies many Buddhist reli- that his Preceptor is
unless gious books whatever he got in the Temple Tripitaka scholar as chooses the dense forest of
well as first B.A those areas and will be suitable
reach library as well as from his Preceptor. After 3/4 for him to practice. So, firmly
months studies he became well-known about graduate monk in
his final those days that he decided not to move anywhere
the teaching of Buddha on theoretical knowl- any more until and unless reach his final
goal.” edge. But, he is not much happy with that and failed to answer my
question – than no- goal. He also thinking deeply, how he will be
he always thinking about practical approach. progress his practice without teacher.
He always ask himself –Where and how it pos- body will be able to
Continues to page 3……
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The Chakma News Prospector
Page 3
Buddhist monks want control of Bodhgaya temple They have been demanding total control over Temple management
since long times. They are unhappy with the Bihar Government for
Bodhgaya (UJI): Buddhist sify their
„deliberately‟ delaying an amendment to the Mahabodhi Temple
monks want control over agitation
Management Act, 1949, to ensure Buddhist control over the manage-
the management of the against
ment of the temple.
Mahabodhi Temple in the Bihar
Bodhgaya, one of the G overn - The Bihar Government does not want to hand over the management
holiest shrines of Bud- ment un- to the Buddhist Monk‟s. According to the existing
dhism, where Lord Bud- til not law, the Bodhgaya Temple Management Commit-
dha Enlightened. They paying heed to their de- tee (BGTMC) should comprise four Buddhists and
have decided to inten- mands. the same number of Hindu members for a three-
year period with the Gaya district magistrate as
Chakma Raja Devasish Roy its ex-officio chairman. **********
selected new Asia UNPFII expert
Continues from page 2….. Enlightened Monk
New York (UJI): The Steering Committee of the United Later, he firmly determined to practice in order to achieved and
Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) final discover the blissful wisdom by any means like the great Sci-
officially announces the results of the entist Sir Isaac Newton - who discovered the Laws of Motion and
selection process for the new Asia UNPFII Gravitation; Galileo Galilei – who discovered the Law of the Pen-
expert for 2011-2013. The voting period dulum; Neil Armstrong - first man to walk on the moon; and Lord
ended last November 16, 2009. Chakma Buddha discovered blissful Nibbana, by their determination,
Raja Devasish Roy was elected for the first dedication, hard works, effort and sacrifices. He took oath to ob-
time, such a highest prestigious post at the serve minimum Five Duthanga (Kammathana) out of 13 and deter-
United Nations. It is also recorded in the mined to become more ascetic life style monk in the dense forest.
Chakma history.
Ven. Ratindra secluded place was very far from the village. No-
Among the two candidates, Chakma Raja Devasish Roy body does know where he meditate, eats, sleep, drink, etc. He
(Jummaland, Bangladesh) got 12.5 country votes depends on alms-round (Pindapat) from the nearest village only.
out of the 14 participating countries while Mr. During the rainy season, he comes to collect alms food only after
Neingulo Krome (Nagaland) got 1.5 country every 3/4 days. During the winter faced cold without enough
votes. The endorsement for Chakma Raja woolen clothes. He carried with him only tri-civaras (three robes)
Devasish Roy will be submitting to the Economic as part of his ascetic practice, which is called “Tri-civaric
and Social Council (ECOSOC) in February 2010. Duthanga”. After around 5/6 years (1954/55) in the dense forest,
****** he became popular on his ascetic life style and practice. Later, the
Buddhist monk: Presidential poll in Sri Lanka villagers built a hut (first hut) for him at the bank of Jogonasuri
River after got permission from him and invited to
Colombo (UJI): The Janasetha Peramuna (JP), one of the
stay there. He also meditated many months under
newly formed political parties recognized by a Bodhi Tree near his hut. About two years later in
the Commissioner of Election, has decided to 1957, a piece of land donated by Mr. Tejmoni
field a Buddhist monk Ven. Battaramulle Chakma for the construction of a hut at Selajghat.
Seelaratana Thera, as its candidate to contest The villagers built the second hut and invited him
the Presidential Election expected to be held to stay there. It became permanent hut till he was
in January 26, 2010. This will be the first time at Dhanapata. So, from 1949-1960 (around 11
in the political history of Sri Lanka that a years), he was diligently in concentration at a
Buddhist monk will be contesting a presidential election stretch for 11 years in solitude. When he come in the village to
under the own party symbol of tractor. Ven. Thera in his alms-round, people call him Ratindra Shraman and later became
media interview said that his party JP would be fielding well-known as Bana Sadhak (Bana means forest and Sadhak
candidates for the forthcoming provincial council election means meditator) which meaning is “practicing meditation in
as well as Parliamentary poll. ****** the forest”.

Tanchangya Council meeting end During this 11 years period of times, the villagers had proved
many ways, through his psychic power that “Bana Sadhak be-
Rangamati, December 29, 2009 (UJI): The Bangladesh came an Enlightened being”. Since, His name and fame spread
Tanchangya Kalyan Sangstha (BTKS) all over the county and abroad as “Bana Bhante”.
6th General Council meeting was
held on 26th & 27th December 2009 at As mentioned earlier, thousands of villages, Chakma Royal Palace
the Tribal Cultural Institute Audito- including Bana Bhante‟s hut and dense forest areas started sub-
rium. Chakma Raja Devasish Roy was Chief Guest. Mr. merging under the water in 1960 by the Kaptai Hy-
Prashyana Kanti Tanchangya, Councilor of the Bandarban dro-Electrical Project. All villagers compelled to
Hill District Council was presided the meeting. move from their ancestral land to different places
More than 500 delegates participated from different part and directions. The Dhanapata villager moved to
of the country. The council demanded for Constitutional Diginala, northern part of the Kingdom. Bana
Guarantee to all ethnic minority groups who are living in Bhante was spent many days
the Chittagong Hill Tracts. ******* Continues to page 4….

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The Chakma News Prospector Page 4
Continues from page 3…. In 1975, a piece of land was donated by the Chakma Royal
Enlightened Monk
family and constructed Raj Bana Vihar. After
without the villager. Later, he could not found any people for
finished the construction, Bana Bhante sent his
alms-round. After a month, a close lay supporter Mr. Nishi Moni
disciple headed by Ven. Nanadapal Bhikkhu at
Chakma and others on behalf of the villager came to invite and to
Raj Bana Vihar, Rangamati.
take him to Diginala in the end of 1960. The villager constructed
a small hut for him to practice meditation at Diginala, which was In 1977, Bana Bhante along with his disciples
secluded and far from their village. After came there, started dili- shifted to permanently at Rangamati from Tintilya, where
gently ascetic practice again. the present Raj Bana Vihar was constructed. Since then he
has been staying there till now.
After few months later at Diginala, the lay supporters organize a
Full Ordination Ceremony (Bhikkhu Upasampada) after obtained On 14th February 1981, after reached 20
permission from Bana Bhante. So, in the middle of 1961, Ven. Vassa (Rain Retreat) Bana Bhante was
Ratindra Shramanera took Full Ordination as a Bhikkhu under the awarded the title as “Mahathera” by the
Preceptor of Ven. Gunalankar Mahathera at the age of 41. Many Sangha community of Bangladesh which
prominent monks were present during his ordination ceremony; was sponsored by the Chakma Royal Family and devotees
such as Ven. Jinavamsa Mahathera, Ven. Ananda Mitra Ma- at Raj Bana Vihar. At present, the Raj Bana Vihar has be-
hathera, Ven. Rajguru Aggavamsa Mahathera, and Ven. Gyanasri come an international tourist spot of pilgrimages and is
Thera and so on. His full ordination named given as Ven. Sad- regularly visited by diplomats and other dignitaries of both
hanananda Bhikkhu. So, from 1949-1961 (12 years), he was home and abroad.
meditated as an ascetic Novice Monk at Dhanapata and Diginala
Bana Bhante’s life time scheduled from 1925 - 1949 (age 5
dense forest. Prior of his Bhikkhu Ordination, he never accepted
to 29=24 years) as a layman; from 1949 -1961(age 29 to
any invitation from the public. After his Bhikkhu Ordination, he
41=12 years) as a Novice Monk (Shramanera); from 1961-
started to accept public invitation with strict condition according
1981(age 41 to 61= 20 years) as a Bhikkhu; and from 1981-
to Vinaya. He was for 10 years (1961-70) after his Full Ordination
2010 (age 61 to 91 = 30 years) as a Mahathera (till today).
at Diginala.
As Bhikkhu and Mahathera, he had reached 49 Vassa (Rain
In middle of 1970, Bana Bhante was shifted to Dur- Retreat) in 2009.
suri from Diginala and was 6/7 months there. Later on
earnest request from Mr. Anil Bihari Chakma During this periods, Bana Bhante spent uncountable days
(Headman and Chairman) moved to Tintilya of Lon- and nights in secluded dense forest inside the caves, under
gadu at the end of 1970. In 1971, after 11 years (11 the trees, huts, bank of the rivers, open field, and slept on
the bush; travel many plains, slopes and hills; crossed
Vassa = Rain Retreat) of his Bhikkhu-hood, Bana Bhante started
giving Dhamma Discourses publicly on his Spiritual journey and many streams and rivers; walked uncountable kilometers
achievements. According to the Vinaya (disciplinary rules and on foots; suffered unbearable; shivered due to cold; wetted
code of conduct in Buddhism), a ordinary Bhikkhu, who due to rain; unable to slept due to hunger, cold, and rain;
not reach minimum 10 Vassa, which means 10 years of his Bhik- millions of visible and invisible sentient beings was around
khu-hood would not allowed him to be in-charge (Abbot) of a him as good friends and some are as bad friends too; and
Monastery or Temple as well as not permitted to give Dhamma spent uncountable days and nights without foods; sacrifices
Discourses publicly. Prior of that, he must have to stay and stud- his whole life; for searching wisdom and blissful happiness
ies Dhamma-Vinaya under his Preceptor or senior Bhikkhu until what he had now.
reach 10 Vassa. But, in case of Bana Bhante, question does not Finally, by his firm determination, dedication, devotion,
arise. He already enlightened, when he was in Dhanapata as an practice meditation, morality, compassionate, equanimity,
ascetic Novice monk. effort, energy, loving-kindness, patience, sacrifices, hard
During his stay at Tintilya in 1973 for the first time in history works, diligent, etc. he had achieved what he wants. After
“Kathina Chivara Dana” was offered to him by the lay achieved in the final stage, he came out in
supporters, which first introduced by the Chief female the public to teach the truth what he found.
lay benefactor named Visaka during the life time of The truth is Four Noble Truth, such as Truth
of Suffering, Truth of the Cause of Suffering,
Exalted One. It was the most remarkable event in Bud-
dhist history in Chakma Royal Kingdom. Truth of the End of Suffering, and Truth of
Chakma Rajmata Benita Roy, Royal family the Path Leading to End of Suffering; as well
members and devotees from Rangamati was also as the truth of right path which is Noble
attended in the Katina Ceremony. Headed by Eightfold Path, such as Right Understanding, Right Thought,
Right Speech, Right Action, Right Livelihood, Right Effort,
Chakma Rajmata Benita Roy, they invited to Bana
Right Mindfulness and Right Concentration.
Bhante to attend at Katina Dana Ceremony at Raj
Vihar which was held on October-November, 1974. Bana Bhante is universally recognized to have attained the
He was accepted. When he came to attend in the Arahantship and regarded as Savaka Buddha, which is
ceremony, the devotees headed by Chakma Rajmata Benita Roy last stage of sainthood in Buddhism. The definition of Ara-
and Rajmata Aroti Roy earnestly requested again to dwell at Ran- hant means, one who is totally free from all defilements-
gamati permanently. Bana Bhante was accepted their invitation greed, hatred, delusion, desire, rid of ignorance, craving,
as well, which should be after 3 years in 1977. He was dwelt at and future birth. The destination of Arahant is to Nibbana,
Tintilya and preached profound Dhamma-Vinaya for 7 years which is Supreme and Blissful Happiness.
(1970-77).
By: Ven. Pragya Jyoti, Australia ********

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The Chakma News Prospector Page 5
Jumma Buddhist Monastery in Chakma Raja : UN Cli-
France mate Change Conference
attended
45th Birth Anniversary: Ven. Jogasiddhi Mahathera France (UJI): The Jumma Bud-
Copen-
dhist community in hagen,
Andarmanek, Sajek (UJI): Ven. Jogasiddhi Mahathera, one of the
France started fund Decem-
prominent disciple of Bana Bhante was established a
raising to buy a ber, 2009
branch monastery of Forest
piece of land for the (UJI):
Tradition at Andarmanek in
construction of a Chakma
2006, which is an interna-
Jumma Buddhist Raja
tional border of Mizoram-
Monastery cum Community Cen- Deva-
Tripura-Jummaland. The
ter for their growing children‟s sish Roy and accom-
Sadharma Fudi Udhok, a socio-religious organiza-
and future generation. Ven. Bi- pany with the Prime
tion, organized the 45th Birth Anniversary of Ven.
mal Bhikkhu, a famous Chakma Minister of Bangla-
Mahathera on June 21, 2009. He given profound
Missionary monk encouraged desh team partici-
Dhamma Discourse on Spiritual Wisdom. More
and advised them for this noble pated in the United
than 5,000 peoples participated from Tripura,
task in his last visit in France on Nations Climate
Arunachal, Assam, Mizoram and Jummaland. Mr.
June-July 2009. The Jumma Bud- Change Conference
Pradhir Talukdar, Director of REGA, a socio-
dhist Community also proudly at Copenhagen, capi-
culture-religious organization made a documen-
announced that they are going to tal city of Denmark.

Watch Films
tary film on that occasion and it was released re-
celebrate “Chakma Bizu 2010”
cently. On the other hand, the Chakma Lega Publi-
which means Chakma New Year During their five-day
cation, Australia (CLPA) published it in the inter-
Eva or Festival with great honor, visit, they met with
net to watch worldwide. (Visit: Google Search: Voice of Jumma-

Worldwide
joy, colorful gathering and grand the Queen of Den-
land and than click Sadharma-2hrs and 27 minutes).
unity with their two standing mark and the Prince
Since many years, the REGA is producing a lot of interesting and socio-cultural welfare organiza- Consort for the Heads
historical documentary films of the Chakma Nation. Like “related tions, namely: the Belo Shaudok of State and Govern-
to Kaptai Dam-Arunachal Chakmas”. Please contact for more infor- Association (BSA) and the Baia ment at Royal Palace
mation and order: REGA– Mobile:91-9863058889 or Association (BAIA). on December 17.
E-mail: rega_chakma@yahoo.com *********** ********

My Pathway of life (in brevity) But in the inner recesses of mind the feeling of thirstiness for knowledge and making
By: S.P.Talukdar, November 10, 2009 mental notes for writ- ing began piercing me and finally, I gave
up service from the post Director Relief and Rehabilitation on
We are under the thickest tree of holocaust deviated voluntary retirement, Superannuation in 1997, and since then
from the partisan policy dividing Indian sub- my abode has been in Guwahati, Assam. It was the beginning to
continent into two major groups Hindu and Muslim impart another facet of life and I set off to join retreats in nu-
creating vacuums for others in 1947, and since then merous denomina- tions of Buddhist sects namely Zen, Shin,
our living is an ordeal experience. I am not well dis- Pure land and Thera- vada and became familiarized with Uni-
posed to writing the sketches of my life owing to the versal Buddhism. I followed dialectic method to deplete my
fact; I am now over to the hills being born in 4th Janu- misconception and gradually the shroud of ignorance began
ary, 1941, now approaching the final stage of life. drifting away with preciseness of facts Universal life that is as follows:-
Genealogically, I come down from Range clan (goza) The origin of life in the universe is eternal (Sassata), never ending. Perish-
of Chakma Community in Chittagong Hill Tracts ing, like Light and Darkness, Good and Evil, Creation and Destruction (two
(CHT), now in Bangladesh. My ancestry comes from
forces in nature). In Buddhism two bodies, one material body and the other
the head of Kachalong Mouza (tax zone) called Taluk
and the title Talukdar derived from it. In my mind‟s
subtle body (unnoticeable). After death the gross body gets destroyed, but
eye, I still can see my happy child hood days in the the subtle body enters into a new body and gets a new name, as explained
house of my maternal grandfather Dr. Madan Mohon in Buddhism. In science it is chromosome, DNA. When conception takes
Dewan near Chakma Rajbari, now sub-merged in place of a mother, life enters (vayu dhatu-air-power) through her nose, her
water of Hydro Electric Project dam on Karnapuli mouth or piercing through abdomen. Some believe it as Atma (atta, heart,
River at Kaptai. My father Dr. Promod Bikash Taluk- prana), an axis straight link (union) with God. Gautama Buddha did not
dar was inducted in medical corpse of British Army in agree the transfer of atta (atma) living entity. A new life, a fresh mind arises
the Second World War in the war front Middle East. (name + rupa) from one existence to another as conditioned by one‟s
After having returned from there he was asked
karma, cause and effect. Four noble truths of Buddhism are anatta.
whether he would join in India or Pakistan. He opted
to India, but his mother land fell in Pakistan and we Gautama Buddha propagated that through pure consciousness of mind one
were segregated from our community. A wave of can peer three period of time past, future and present. One method of con-
nostalgia was hitting us often since then. sciousness is called “Vipassana Meditation” through one‟s body, eye, ear,
My wayward life began with merchant Navy, cursing nose, language and mind that denoted anatta (non-soul). In the terrestrial
many countries since 1963, but impelling force in world, achieving emptiness through Jhana (Dhyana) deep concentration
heart remained to meet my blood relations. Later I dispelling name and rupa ( material body) ending Dukkha ( suffering, sad-
joined government job in State Administrative Ser- ness) and no more cause and effect, dependent origination link that is the
vice in a lofty mountain State adjoined to CHT, getting final fruits of Buddhism, ultimate bliss and peace.
breath of space meeting my own people in distant *******************

“The Chakma News Prospector” Google Search: Voice of Jummaland; E-mail: clpublication@yahoo.com.au or alaam@writeme.com
The Chakma News Prospector Page 6
Sanghamitra and Mahaparinirvana Express Chakma Raj Punyah celebrated
Trains has introduced in India
Rangamati, December 30, 2009 (UJI): A three days
The Sangha Mitra was the daughter of Emperor Ashoka, who was colorful Chakma Raj Punyah was celebrated from 27th to
the ruler of Maurya Dy- nasty. Later, Emperor 29th at the Chakma Royal Palace complex in
Asoka converted into Bud- dhism. Sangha Mitra was Rangamati according to the traditional cus-
one of the prominent Bhik- kuni (Nun), who went to toms. This time, they were celebrated after
Sri Lanka and propagated Buddhism there. In her five years. Last time, it was took place in
named “Sanghamitra Ex- press” train was intro- 2003.
duced by Indian Railways Corporations in 2002.
Chakma Raja Devasish Roy and Prince Trib-
This Express runs in be- tween Patna in Bihar and
huban Aryadev Roy ascended the throne at
Bangalore in Karnataka. It has two A/C coaches, 11
the “Raj Darbar”. Raja Roy received annual jhum taxes
sleeper class coaches and two general class coaches, a pantry car
from the 175 headmen at the function. He also received
and luggage van.
chicken, pig, wine, etc. as gift from them as per as their
For more information please visit: www.indiarailinfo.com/train
tradition. They also organized as Gautam Muni Mela,
Mahaparinirvana Express is a special Bud- cultural function, sports, drama and exhibition. *****
dhist Circuit Tourist Train introduced by
Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Cor- Chakma in Pakistan
poration Ltd in October 2009. The Corpo-
Islamabad, December 2009 (UJI): Former Chakma
ration is targeted to Buddhist tourists from
Raja Tridiv Roy virtually still unknown to the present
home and abroad. It is a unique express train connecting all impor-
Pakistanis generation. Raja Roy was just one of the East
tant places of Buddhist pilgrimages in India besides one in Nepal.
Pakistan Parliamentarian to reject the
All amenities are provided by the Rajdhani Express trains. Tourists
new country (Bangladesh) in 1971.
offered onboard and off-board catering and housekeeping services.
This special train has 18 berths of first AC, 92 of two-tier AC and 256 Raja Roy told on December 16, on an
berths of three-tier AC. anniversary of the “Fall of Dhaka”. No
regrets about that life-changing deci-
The Express is basically a 7 Nights/8 Days tour
sion as his people continue to be dis-
package covering all Major Buddhist destinations
criminated against by Bangladesh. The
like Bodhgaya, Rajgir & Nalanda, Varanasi & Sar-
main reason in his decision to support
nath, Kushinagar, Sravasti, including Taj Mahal-
the Pakistani Nation was that “the people of the Chit-
Agra (India); and Lumbini (Nepal). This package
tagong Hill Tracts (CHT) are not Bengalis”. He left East
includes your journey with exclusive AC Train & AC Coaches, Ac-
Pakistan on November 11, before the war began. The
commodation in Hotels, All Meals, Entrance Fee, Travel Insurance,
Pakistani forces was surrender on December 16.
Onboard Security, Service of Tour Guide and Escort, etc.
Most of Raja Roy‟s family, including his wife, remained
Class and Prices of the Express: behind in the new Bangladesh. The eldest son, Devasish
AC First Class Coupe: - USD 164 per person per night.
Roy, who remained behind with his mother and a sister.
AC First Class: - USD 150 per person per night.
He is now 76-year-old. ******
AC 2 TIER: - USD 125 per person per night.
AC 3 TIER: - USD 105 per person per night.
Buddhism growing fastest in Australia
For more information please visit:
www.railtourismindia.com/buddha ******* Australia (UJI): Buddhism is fastest growing religion and it is the second largest
religious group in Australia. The vast majority of Australians are members of
Indigenous Connections Conference the Christian faith, but per capita the number of Buddhists has growing tremen-
dously than any other Western Nations. Christianity is decreasing in every
Australia, November, 2009 (UJI): An In- year. The Christian peoples knew now that Buddhism is the only Scientific, Hu-
digenous Climate Connec- manistic and Peace-loving religion in the world.
tion Conference was held on
November 14-20, 2009 at According to the Australian Board of Statistics report in 2006 that
Sarawak, Malaysia. More claims a 79% increase in Aussies (Australian) who consider them-
than 100 indigenous youth selves Buddhists since 1996, now reaching more than 418,812 peo-
participated ple. The few years since this report and visits by the Dalai Lama
from differ- has probably increased this number considerably.
ent countries of the globe.
An interview on ABC Radio with a famous and most Senior British-
Mr. Bidhayak Chakma rep-
Australian Spiritual Buddhist teacher Venerable Ajahn Brah-
resented from Jummaland,
mavamsa, Spiritual Director of the Bodhinyana Monastery, Western
Bangladesh. Mr. Chakma is one of the ac-
Australia states that, “Twice as many people who say they are Bud-
tive members of the Jumma student commu-
dhists actually meditate, go to temples, and read books. That's one
nity since many years. At present, he is
in 20 Australians. If they are not sympathetic to Buddhist, they are
studying in Australia since 2007. The confer-
certainly very close to being Buddhists.” ****
ence unanimously demanded “Dignity for
the Indigenous Peoples”. *****
“The Chakma News Prospector” Google Search: Voice of Jummaland, E-mail: clpublication@yahoo.com.au or alaam@writeme.com
The Chakma News Prospector Page 7
Bana Bhante’s contribution toward the Buddhist World YCA Conference 2009 end
As we knew about the life story of Bana Bhante which is really inspired to
those who are thirsty for the Buddha Dharma. The followers of Bana Bhante’s Mizoram, December 19, 2009:
widely recognized him as a modern Arahant, which is last stage of sainthood The 34th Young Chakma Asso-
in Buddhism. The definition of Arahant means, one who is totally free from all ciation (YCA) General Confer-
defilements- greed, hatred, delusion, desire, rid of ignorance, craving, and ence was held on 16-18 Decem-
future birth. The destination of Arahant is to Nibbana, which is Supreme and ber 2009 at Tripuraghat. The
blissful happiness. YCA is one of the oldest Chakma
Socio-Cultural Welfare Organi-
As we also knew Bana Bhante is meditating from 1925 - 1949 (age 5 to 29=24 years) as a zation in the country. It was
layman; from 1949 -1961(age 29 to 41=12 years) as a Novice Monk (Shramanera); from 1961 formed on 25th October 1978.
-1981(age 41 to 61= 20 years) as a Bhikkhu; and from 1981-2010 (age 61 to 91 = 30 years) as The founder President was Mr.
a Mahathera (till today). As Bhikkhu and Mahathera, he had reached 49 Vassa (Rain Retreat) Ramani Mohan Chakma. The
in 2009. existing President is Mr. Parimal
Chakma and General
But, it is very clear that since 1971, when Bana Bhante was dwelling at Tintilya of Longadu, Secretary Mr. Pranit
he started preaching the Buddha Dhamma publicly on his Spiritual journey and achieve- Bikash Chakma. Mr.
ments. At that time, he was only 11 Vassa (Rain Retreat), which means 11 years of his Bhik- John Rotluangliana,
khu-hood. So, from 1971- till today (over 38 years), he is preaching the Buddha Dhamma Deputy Speaker of
restlessly in different part of the country, especially in Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT). Mizoram was the Chief Guest;
Mr. N.K. Chakma, Minister of
We also should not be forgetting Late Most Venerable Rajguru Aggavamsa Mahathera‟s
State and Mr. Nirupam
contribution toward the flourishing of Buddhism in CHT. He was participated in the 6th Bud-
Chakma, MLA was dis-
dhist Council was held in Rangoon, Burma (Myanmar) in 1954-56. He also partici-
tinguish guest. The
pated at the UN Economic and Social Council Commission on Human Rights Con-
main theme of the con-
ference in Geneva, Switzerland on 29 July -2 August l985. He was Tipitaka
ference was on Social,
scholar from Myanmar in1948. Master on Pali in 1954. Established Parbatya Bhik-
Education, Cultural & Economics
khu Sangha (PBS) in 1958. He left more than 20 disciples across the country and
Issue in the Chakma society.
abroad. He belongs from Tanchangya community, sub-tribe of Chakma Nation.
The speakers spoke how to de-
As a result, we can declare that the Theravada Buddhism is deeply rooted in CHT since velop, social, education, cultural
many years by the contribution of Bana Bhante, Rajguru Aggavamsa and other prominent and economics amongst the so-
monks in different decades. The credit goes to them for their preaching, dedi- ciety. The Chief Guest urge to
cation, noble effort and sacrifices. Of course, the most success story was love and live in Mizoram peace-
made by Bana Bhante. He brought about literally renaissance in CHT in reli- fully like brothers and sisters
gious arena in early seventies among the Buddhists. In fact, the scenario of amongst the people in Mizoram.
Buddhism in CHT had completely been changed.
Mr. Sudip Chakma, Mr. Prasenjit
At present, Bana Bhante is residing with good number of disciples (Bhikkhus, Shra- Chakma, Mr. Sunil Chakma, Mr.
maneras, Upasakas and Upasikas) in Raj Bana Vihar. Apart from this main monastery, there Priyo Bangsha Mog, Mr. Indralal
are quite a few dozen of branches monastery has been estab- Chakma, Dr. Buddha Dhan
lished across the home and abroad. The disciples of Bana Chakma, and Mr. Parimal
Bhante have wide good reputation of leading ascetic life Chakma also spokes; and more
strictly adhering to Vinaya which is the great strength of the than 2,000 youth participated in
Sangha. At present, the Raj Bana Vihara has became a international spot of the conference.
pilgrimages and is regularly visited by diplomats and other dignitaries of both home and ******
abroad. Thousands of his followers all over the world.
Chakma Minister
demand passed
Ariya Putta, that who achieved profound wisdom to realize the essence of the doctrine dis-
covered by the Enlightened One. This is the core point at which Bana Aizawl, October 28, 2009
Bhante made incredible success. He interpreted the core (UJI): Mizoram Legislative
learning of Buddhism such a manner that people compre- Assembly had
hended it. The an- other salient aspect of passed unani-
his teaching is that he not only delivers religious dis- mously that the
course but also focuses on put- ting the code of religious ethics into demand of the
practice in life, which is medita- tion. Animal Husbandry
and Veterinary Minister, Mr.
The advent of this rear and great noble personality, whose establishment is based on the Nihar Kanti Chakma. Mr.
wisdom of the four-fold noble truth, has become the helmsman of the revival of True Bud- Chakma demanded an
dhism in Bangladesh. We all, with the ultimate veneration and profound gratefulness, wish a amount of Rs.46.5092
long, long life of this great noble personality. ******* Crores for Disaster Manage-
ment & Rehabilitation, Ani-
Contact to visit: Royal Forest Monastery, Rangamati, Jummaland (CHT), Bangladesh.
E-mail: saranankar@gmail.com or tanaydewan@yahoo.co.uk or
mal Husbandry and Sericul-
rajbanavihara@gmail.com (Tel: 880-351-62158) ture. ******
Continue to the next issue…
“The Chakma News Prospector” Google Search: Voice of Jummaland; E-mail: clpublication@yahoo.com.au or alaam@writeme.com
The Chakma News Prospector
Page 8
Editorial
“People always ask this question, where did the Buddha go or where he is living now? This is
a very difficult question to answer for those who have not developed a spiritual way of life.
This is because everybody thinks about life in a worldly way.”

Let‟s we learn Chakma Holy


“If I say that the Buddha is living in any part of the universe in physical form it is against the teachings of
the Buddha. On the other hand if I say that the Buddha is not living in any part of the universe in physical

Scripture from website: Google


form many people are not very happy because they have craving for existence which cannot be satisfied.
Therefore they say it is nothingness. Actually, it is not nothingness; it is the ending of physical and mental
suffering and experiencing Nibbanic bliss or salvation. On the other hand there are some people who

Search: Voice of Jummaland


really need the physical form of the image of the Buddha to calm their mind, reduce their tension, fear and
worries. However it is not right for us to say the Buddha is living or not. If the doctrine or the teaching of
the Buddha is available for us to experience peace, satisfaction in our life that is more than enough for us.”
Ven. Pragya Jyoti
Editor By: Late K. Sri Dhammananda
Alaam, Chakma
News prospector & Chakma Girl: Gold Medal in Mizoram Pali College: Raj Bana Vihar
Online Chakma
Aizawl (UJI): First time in the history of Rangamati, 2009 (UJI): The Katin Chibar Dana Ceremony is
Dictionary
Mizoram organized first Inter Higher Sec- one of the biggest religious Buddhist Festival
Free Download ondary School Swimming Championship organizing every year at Raj Bana Vihar. This
Chakma Scrip- Competition was held on December 11, year Chakma Raja Debasish Roy was inaugu-
tures, Alaam, 2009. In this Championship competition, rated the two-day festival. According to the
Chakma News Govt. Mamwiin Higher Secondary School Buddhist history, the first time this festival was
Prospector, scored 3 Gold Medals; LR Higher Secon- introduced by Visaka, a lay disciple of the Enlightened One in
Chakma font soft- dary School scored 2 Gold and 2 Bronze 2556 years ago. It is observing world-wide.
ware. Medals; and Govt. KM Higher Secondary
School scored 1 Gold, 2 Silver and 3 Most Highest Holiness Venerable Sadhanananda Mahathera
Google Search: Bronze medals. (Bana Bhante) delivered the sermon. He advised to avoid all
Voice of Jumma- unwholesome deeds including dividing and rule
land Miss Rekha Chakma and Miss Debashree policy. Nibbana is the Highest and Happiest place
Chakma both from LR Higher Secondary for a Buddhist, he said. He also admonished to
School became Champion and received follow the teaching of Enlightened One.
Gold and Bronze Medals respectively in
the 20 meters freestyle and 20 meters Mr. Chalermpol Tanchit, Thai Ambassador to
backstroke Swimming Championship Dhaka; Mr. Supatra Masdit, Adviser to the
Competition. Miss Rekha Chakma with her Prime Minister of Thailand; and a representa-
extraordinary effort she had finished to tive of the King of Thailand was attended in the
swim at 31.75 Seconds and Miss De- occasion. They were donated 9 Buddha stat-
bashree Chakma at 45.53 Seconds. ues for the monastery and robes to the Bud-
dhist monks.
Senior Chakma The Sports Minister Pu Zodintluanga was
monk passed Chief Guest and presented the prize to the Mr. Dipankar Talukder, Minister for CHT Affairs an-
away winners in the ceremony. nounced a grant of aids to an amount of Tk. 3 Crores
********** to establish a Pali College at the Raj Bana Vihar Com-
Ven. Bimal Priyo plex.
M a h a t h e r a
Four Forest Monasteries in India
(Sugukigulo Mr. Dilip Barua, Minister for Industries; and Mr. Nikhil
Bhante) h a d Bodhgaya, 2009 (UJI): Ven. Nandapal Ma- Kumar Chakma, Chairman of the Rangamati Hill Dis-
passed away on hathera, one of the Chief trict Council and other 50,000 peoples from home and
17/12/09 at 10 pm disciple of Bana Bhante abroad was participated in the ceremony. ****
in Moitri Vihar, was established four
Rangamati at the branches monasteries of
age of 84. He was Bana Bhante‟s Forest Tra- Chakma areas: Road Constructions
Abbot of the dition in Miao (Arunachal), Arunachal, December 2009 (UJI): For the first time 4 pitch
Tegaduar Bud- Gauhati (Assam), Agartala roads are under construction through
dhist Temple, (Tripura) and Bodhgaya in Chakma Villages under the “Prime Minister
Jummaland since recent year. It is a remarkable flourishing Gramin Sarak Yojana Programme (PMGSYP)
many years. He of Bana Bhante‟s Forest Tradition in 21st in the Chakma areas in Arunachal Pradesh.
was also Presi- century. Ven. Nandapal is continuing The roads are: - (a) Barket Road (Bordumsa - Magantong) -
dent of the Tega- teaching meditation in Bodhgaya, Miao Bijaypur III village (8kms length & 12 feet width); (b) Newton
Harina Valley and other different parts of India as a visit- Village to Dharmapur Village (6kms length & 12 feet width);
branch of the Par- ing spiritual teacher. His reputation be- (c) Diyun - Dumpani Village (3kms length & 12 feet width; and
batya Bhikkhu came well-known to Buddhist and non- (d) Diyun - Haripur Village (3kms length & 12 feet width).
Sangha (PBS). *** Buddhist all over in India. *** ********

“The Chakma News Prospector” Google Search: Voice of Jummaland; E-mail: clpublication@yahoo.com.au or alaam@writeme.com

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