Each year on 10 October, Buddhists worldwide honor the birth anniversary of Phra Mongkolthepmuni (Sodh Candasaro), better known as Luang Pu Wat Paknam—”the Great Victor over Mara”—who rediscovered Vijja Dhammakaya for the modern world.
The birth anniversary — 10 October each year
This day recalls the physical birth (by form body) of Luang Pu Wat Paknam. Devotees worldwide perform great merits as a tribute to the teacher and to the Triple Gem.
Ceremonies
- 3rd Kasina cloth offering (Thot Pha Pa) supporting Wat Phra Dhammakaya and 30,000 temples nationwide
- Planting ceremony of auspicious trees (Ton Sapsom Ban Cheun)
- Lighting 20,000 lanterns in homage to the Maha Dhammakaya Cetiya
- Meditation practice and Dhamma talks
Who was Luang Pu Wat Paknam?
Born in 1884, Phra Mongkolthepmuni was the abbot of Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen, Bangkok. After intensive practice, on 14 October 1917 he rediscovered Vijja Dhammakaya at Wat Bangpla, Samut Songkhram. He became known as Phra Phu Prabsom Mara, the great teacher who conquered the inner mara (defilements) through loving-kindness and wisdom, laying the foundation for the meditation tradition passed to Wat Phra Dhammakaya today.
How to join — On-site and Online
- On-site: Wat Phra Dhammakaya, Khlong Sam, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani 12120
- Online: Support the Kasina offering via Line OA “@dhammakaya” or watch the live broadcast on the temple’s Facebook page and DMC channel.
The climax of the year
October’s offering is the 3rd and final Kasina before the Grand Kathina. Learn more about the master in Dhammakaya Master Day and plan your year with the Dhammakaya Merit Calendar.
