Buddha Purnima is an important festival celebrated by Buddhists all over the world. It is celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Vaisakha in the Hindu calendar. The festival celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. It is also known as Vesak, Buddha Jayanti, and Buddha Day.
History of Buddha Purnima
Buddha Purnima is believed to have originated in India over 2600 years ago. It is believed that the Buddha was born on the full moon day of Vaisakha in the Lumbini Garden in Nepal. He was born as Siddhartha Gautama, the son of King Suddhodana and Queen Mayadevi. Siddhartha was born with special qualities and was believed to be a divine being. He was given the name ‘Buddha’, which means ‘The Enlightened One’.
When to Celebrate Buddha Purnima
Buddha Purnima is celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Vaisakha. This usually falls in the month of April or May. This year, Buddha Purnima was celebrated on 5th May 2023
Significance of Buddha Purnima
Buddha Purnima is a very important festival for the Buddhists. It is celebrated to commemorate the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha. The festival is also celebrated to spread the message of peace and compassion that Buddha preached. It is believed that on this day, Lord Buddha attained Nirvana or enlightenment and became the Buddha, the enlightened one.
How to Celebrate Buddha Purnima
Buddha Purnima is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm. On this day, Buddhists visit temples and monasteries to offer prayers and meditate. They also perform various rituals such as bathing the Buddha statue with milk and honey. People also exchange gifts and sweets with each other.
The day is also celebrated with special feasts and processions. People light lamps and candles in the temples and monasteries to signify the enlightenment of Lord Buddha. People also sing hymns and chants in praise of Lord Buddha.
Summary
Buddha Purnima is an important festival celebrated by Buddhists all over the world. It is celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Vaisakha in the Hindu calendar. The festival celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. It is also known as Vesak, Buddha Jayanti, and Buddha Day. Buddhists celebrate the festival by visiting temples and monasteries, performing rituals, exchanging gifts and sweets, and lighting lamps and candles in the temples.
You can explore other festivals such as Cheti Chand and Hanuman Jayanti.