Spiritual celebration: An exhibition of calligraphy, paintings and photos is part of the Quan The Am Boddhisattva Festival in Da Nang. — File Photo

DA NANG — Tramthog Rinpoche, abbot of the Namgyal Monastery in Dharamsala, India, preached the history of Vajrapani to nearly 500 Buddhists during the first day of the annual Quan The Am (Avalokitecvara) Boddhisattva Festival in Da Nang City yesterday.

The three-day event will officially open at the Quan The Am Pagoda in the Son Tra peninsula tomorrow.

An exhibition of calligraphy, paintings and photos was also organised as a warm up to the main festival.

"It's the first time I've been in Viet Nam, receiving a warm welcome from the local people and organising committee. I'm honoured to participate in the biggest cultural event of the year in Da Nang City," the abbot told followers.

"I want to introduce the history of Vajrapani, its philosophy and religious significance on the occasion of the annual (Avalokitecvara) Boddhisattva Festival," he said.

A series of cultural performances including the release of flower garlands and boat racing on the Co Co River will take place during the three-day event. — VNS