Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto inaugurated the Two Buddhist Pilgrims’ Journey Photography Exhibition on November 15. Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan led the ribbon-cutting ceremony with curators May Tossan and Steve Tossan, joined by approximately 40 community members and friends.

The exhibition takes viewers on a visual pilgrimage across Asia, featuring sacred Buddhist sites in Tibet, India, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Angkor Wat, Hong Kong, and the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum in Taiwan. Among the highlights is a powerful image of the Buddha’s cremation stupa in India veiled in morning fog—an image that Steve noted as a reminder of impermanence and the importance of appreciating each moment.

The couple’s spiritual journey began in 1996 during their first visit to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, which sparked a deep interest in Buddhism. In 2013, after the passing of a family member, they connected with Fo Guang Shan Toronto. The following year, they took refuge inthe Triple Gem, undertook the Five Precepts, and joined BLIA. Inspired by documentary films and personal aspiration, they later embarked on a two-month pilgrimage across India, visiting numerous significant Buddhist sites.

Venerable Chueh Fan shared that she has long admired the couple’s sincerity and devotion. Believing their experiences could inspire and benefit others on the path, the Abbess invited them to present their stories and photographs through this exhibition.

Reflecting on the pilgrimage, Steve spoke of moments of quiet affirmation—especially when standing before ancient stupas and statues that have received centuries of reverence. He encouraged those with suitable conditions to consider undertaking a pilgrimage to India, particularly to the four major sites of the Buddha’s life: Lumbini, Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, and Kushinagar.

Each photograph includes a brief introduction and a QR code linking to additional information for visitors wishing to explore further.

The Two Buddhist Pilgrims’ Journey Photography Exhibition is open to the public at Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto until February 1, 2026.