Pannakara

Pannakara is the leader of a group of 18 monks who recently completed a 3,700 km peace walk across the United States, beginning in Texas and culminating in Washington, D.C. Their journey, which started in October 2025, involved walking barefoot through harsh winter conditions and aimed to promote peace, mindfulness, and healing rather than political or religious agendas. Pannakara and the monks practiced and taught Vipassana meditation, emphasizing the connection between mind and body. Their efforts garnered significant public attention, with many supporters gathering along their route to offer encouragement and flowers. In Washington, they plan to visit the National Cathedral and propose that Congress recognize Vesak, the day celebrating the birth and enlightenment of the Buddha, as a federal holiday.