On May 23, Buddhists around the world will come together to celebrate Buddha Purnima, a sacred holiday commemorating the birth of Gautama Buddha. While the exact date of his birth is unknown, the festival is traditionally observed on the full moon day of the Vaisakha month. From Lumbini, Nepal to Sikkim, India, where Buddhist monuments and monasteries are abundant, this festival serves as an opportunity to spread the message of peace, compassion, and enlightenment.
Buddha Purnima: Celebration of the Birth of Gautama Buddha
Buddha Purnima, also known as Vesak, is a sacred holiday observed by Buddhists worldwide to commemorate the birth of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. While the exact date of his birth is uncertain, the festival is traditionally celebrated on the full moon day of the Vaisakha month, which typically falls in May.
Background
Gautama Buddha was born in Lumbini, Nepal, in the 6th century BCE as Siddhartha Gautama. He was the son of a wealthy king and lived a life of luxury. However, at the age of 29, he renounced his material possessions and embarked on a spiritual journey. After years of meditation and introspection, he attained enlightenment under a Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India.
Buddha spent the rest of his life teaching the Dharma, his teachings on the nature of reality and the path to liberation from suffering. His teachings emphasized the importance of right conduct, compassion, and mindfulness.
Celebrations of Buddha Purnima
Buddha Purnima is a major festival in all Buddhist countries. It is a day of peace, reflection, and the spread of Buddha's teachings. Celebrations include:
Top 5 FAQs Related to Buddha Purnima
1. When is Buddha Purnima celebrated? Buddha Purnima is celebrated on the full moon day of the Vaisakha month, which typically falls in May.
2. Why is Buddha Purnima significant? Buddha Purnima commemorates the birth of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism.
3. What are some common rituals associated with Buddha Purnima? Common rituals include prayers, meditation, chanting, offerings, and processions.
4. What is the significance of the Bodhi tree in Buddha Purnima? The Bodhi tree is where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. It is a symbol of wisdom and spiritual awakening.
5. How is Buddha Purnima celebrated outside of Buddhist countries? While Buddha Purnima is primarily a Buddhist festival, it is also celebrated in some non-Buddhist countries, such as India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, due to the influence of Buddhism in those regions. Celebrations may include cultural performances, art exhibitions, and educational events.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi spent Diwali in an unconventional manner, celebrating the festival of lights with Indian Navy personnel onboard the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant. During his visit, Modi praised the INS Vikrant as a symbol of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and also witnessed a stunning air power demo by MiG 29K fighter jets taking off and landing on the short runway of the aircraft carrier. Modi was also deeply moved by a special cultural performance by the sailors, dedicated to the success of the Indian Armed Forces. He ended the evening by joining in the tradition of Bara Khana with the naval personnel. On the next day, Modi joined a yoga session on deck and watched a spectacular steampast of warships and flypast by aircraft.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali with Navy personnel on the country's new aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant. He extended Diwali greetings to the nation and shared highlights from his visit, including an air power demonstration and cultural program. PM Modi also addressed the significance of Diwali and expressed his best wishes to the families of the Navy personnel.
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Hundreds of travellers heading to India from Italy for Diwali were left stranded after Air India cancelled its Milan-Delhi flight due to a technical issue. The sudden breakdown of the flight raised concerns about making it home in time for the festival. Some passengers even face the prospect of celebrating Diwali away from home due to rebookings on alternate flights. Air India assured that they are prioritising passenger safety and comfort while providing necessary support to those affected.