(KPL)The cremation ceremony for the late Venerable Maha Bounma Simmaphom, President of the Central Committee of the Lao Buddhist Fellowship Organization, was held with great honor and solemnity on Saturday at That Luang Esplanade in Vientiane.

The ceremony drew a distinguished gathering of senior monks and abbots from across Laos and abroad, along with top leaders of the Lao Party and government. Among the attendees were President Thongloun Sisoulith, Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, former Party and state leaders, and a large number of Buddhist followers representing the country’s diverse ethnic communities.

Mr. Sinlavong Khoutphaythoune, President of the Lao Front for National Construction and head of the funeral organizing committee, delivered a heartfelt eulogy. In his address, he stated:

"Venerable Maha Bounma Simmaphom passed away on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at 00:22, at the age of 92, after dedicating 72 years to the monkhood. His passing is a profound loss for the nation and the Lao Buddhist Fellowship Organization. It is a tremendous sorrow shared by the Buddhist community in Laos and abroad, as well as by the Party, the state, and the Lao Front for National Construction.

Though the Venerable has left us, his teachings, virtues, and noble example will forever remain in the hearts of those who respected and followed him."

Venerable Maha Bounma was widely revered for his lifelong dedication to the spiritual and moral development of the Lao people. He played a pivotal role in fostering unity and harmony through the promotion of Buddhist values, and under his leadership, the Lao Buddhist Fellowship Organization strengthened its contributions to national development and social cohesion.

The cremation ceremony was conducted in accordance with traditional Buddhist rites, including offerings, sacred chants, and rituals led by high-ranking monks. Thousands of devotees gathered to pay their final respects.

The passing of Venerable Maha Bounma marks the end of a significant era for Lao Buddhism. Yet, his legacy endures—a guiding light for generations to come.

KPL