Buddha Jayanti, a widely celebrated event in Nepal, Buddha Purnima is celebrated by Buddhists in different countries and cultures worldwide with a lot of dedication and enthusiasm. The mood may be different but the central message remains the same–to respect the life and teachings of Buddha.
Good conduct on Buddha Purnima includes the following:
Visiting temples and monasteries-Devotees pray, light candles and incense sticks in Buddhist temples and monasteries.
Meditation and chanting of scriptures-Meditation sessions and recitations of Buddhist scriptures are organized for inner peace and enlightenment.
Religious processions-Many places hold processions where images of Buddha are carried while people sing devotional songs or play music.
Acts of charity and compassion-It is a day to give alms to the poor, release caged birds or do other kind things.
Vegetarian meals-Most Buddhists take vegetarian foods as a way of showing compassion to all creatures.
Buddha Purnima in Different Countries
Observation of Buddha Purnima festival differs from one country to another. In India for example where it is a national holiday; special prayers and worship services are conducted at the Bodh Gaya, Sarnath and Kushinagar pilgrimage centers.
Sri Lanka marks this day as Vesak which is also known as Buddha’s birthday festival and it is celebrated with great pomp. Streets are adorned with coloured lanterns while pandals portraying scenes of Buddha’s life are erected everywhere.
Buddhists offer monks food and flowers at temples in Thailand during Visakha Bucha Day. Candlelight processions are then held in the evening.
Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha in Nepal is the center of these celebrations. Pilgrims from all over the world visit this place to pray and take part in religious rites.
Buddha Purnima 2024, Message of Peace and Harmony
In light of ongoing global challenges and conflicts, the ideals of Buddha Purnima – Baishakh Purnima peace, compassion, non-violence – have assumed unprecedented significance. The occasion provides an opportunity for people at individual and community levels to unite and deliberate on how best to espouse these virtues for a better tomorrow.
On this Buddha Purnima, let us endeavour in every possible way to show compassion, love, and empathy for all living creatures. We should also internalize the teachings of Lord Buddha as we strive towards establishing a world full of tranquility and concord.
Happy Buddha Purnima 2024!