It's a happy occasion to celebrate a person's 80th birthday, especially if the person is someone who is respected by many.  Venerable Chao Khun Phra Tepsiddivides, Abbot of the Wat Ananda Metyarama since 1973, celebrated his 80th birthday on 14 May 2009. 

Over 300 monks from Thailand and Singapore gathered during this period in Wat Ananda to offer prayers for his well-being over a 3-day period.  A number of high-ranking Venerables, eg Somdej Phra Maha Ratchamangalajayaraja (a Head Monk of Thailand's Supreme Patriarch) also came to celebrate this joyous occasion.

Venerable Chao Khun has done much for Wat Ananda since becoming the Abbot.  During this period, he oversaw the construction of the Kuan Yin Shrine, a monk's quarters and the 3-storey Extension Block which now houses the Dhamma Hall.

Wat Ananda Youth would like to wish Venerable Chao Khun good health and happiness and wish that he could continue to guide us in the path. 

Celerbrations in the temple during day time.  Venerable Somdej flew in from Thailand to join in the celerbations.

Celebrations continue with a dinner.  VIPs and Venerable Chao Khun mingling before the start of the dinner.  Religious leaders from the Inter-Religious Organisation (IRO) saying prayers before the dinner.  Venerable Chao Khun is also a representative with IRO.

Venerable Chao Khun went round the 80 tables to thank the devotees during the dinner.  Presentation of a cheque donation to Tiong Bahru CC. Standing next to Venerable Chao Khun is Mr Koo Tasi Kee, MP for Tanjong Pagar GRC.

A token of appreciation, a potrait of Venerable, from WAY to Venerable Chao Khun.   WAY volunteers helping during the dinner.  Cheers! : )