When Buddhism entered China around the 1st century CE, it encountered deeply rooted Taoist and folk traditions. Rather than displacing these beliefs, Mahayana Buddhism gradually assimilated elements of Chinese spirituality, especially those concerning the dead and the afterlife.
Among these, the concept of hungry ghosts—spirits suffering due to unresolved kamma or lack of ancestral offerings—resonated closely with the Buddhist idea of Petas, beings trapped in one of the 31 realms of existence due to past unwholesome actions. This alignment allowed the Buddhist narrative to naturally integrate with Chinese ancestral rites.
By the Tang Dynasty (7th–10th century), this fusion gave rise to the Buddhist Ullambana Festival, also known in Chinese culture as the Hungry Ghost Festival. Inspired by the story of Venerable Mah-Moggallana (Mulian), who sought to free his mother from the realm of hungry ghosts through offerings and compassionate acts, the festival emphasized filial piety and the transfer of merit to relieve the suffering of departed beings.
Thus, the Ullambana Festival became a bridge between Buddhist and Chinese values, blending ethical teachings with local ritual practices. Today, it remains a powerful expression of compassion, generosity, and reverence for ancestors in both Mahayana Buddhism and Taoism.
As Theravāda Buddhism spread into regions where Mahāyāna traditions were already established, Theravāda temples gradually embraced the observance of the Hungry Ghost Festival. While the cultural backdrop may differ, Theravāda communities focus on performing wholesome actions—such as offering dāna to the Sangha, conducting chanting sessions, and engaging in meritorious deeds. These merits are then mindfully dedicated to departed loved ones, wishing them peace, well-being, and happiness in their onward journey.
Let us gather as a spiritual community to engage in noble Dhamma practices, cultivate compassion, and dedicate merits beyond this life.
Registration for Participation
Please register at https://dhammakami.org/u25-reg
Date and Time
6-September-2025 (Saturday)
2:00pm – 4:30pm
Program Schedule
| 2:00pm – 2:15pm | Puja Procession |
| 2:15pm – 2:30pm | A Gift Beyond Boundaries (Dhamma Talk by Ven. K. Rathanasara) |
| 2:30pm – 3:00pm | A Mindful Dhamma Reflection |
| 3:00pm – 3:20pm | Offering and Homage to the Triple Gem |
| 3:20pm – 3:50pm | Tirokudda Sutta & Paritta Chanting |
| 3:50pm – 4:00pm | Offering to the Sangha (Participants may offer individually) |
| 4:00pm – 4:10pm | Merits Dedication to the Departed (Pattidāna Ceremony) |
| 4:10pm – 4:20pm | Sprinkling of Blessed Water, Sharing of Merits, Paying Final Respects |
| 4:30pm | Light Refreshment |
Venue
Dhammakami Buddhist Society
29, Lorong 29 Geylang, #06-01/02, Singapore 388078.
Important Note:
1. Please arrive by 1:45pm on Saturday, 6-September-2025 at the Dhammakami Buddhist Society Centre to ensure a smooth and mindful start.
2. The organising committee will arrange offerings to the Triple Gem on behalf of all participants. Therefore, please do not bring joss papers, incense, food, or other ritual items. However, during the Offering to the Sangha session, you are welcome to make your personal offerings directly to the monks if you wish.
Please call or message us via WhatsApp at 9068 6036 or email us at dkbs@dhammakami.org for enquires.