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Buddha Purnima, a sacred festival celebrated by Buddhists around the world, honors the birth of Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. Gautama Buddha, birth name Siddhartha Gautama, was a spiritual teacher on whose teachings Buddhism was founded. Buddha Purnima is celebrated on the full moon day in the Hindu month of Vaishakh, This year Buddha Purnima is on May 23, 2024.
Timings of Buddha Purnima
- Thursday, May 23, 2024
- Purnima Tithi Start: 22 May 2024 at 06:47 PM
- Purnima Tithi will end on 23rd May 2024 at 07:22 PM.
A Day of Auspicious Beginnings
- Believed to be the 2586th birth anniversary of Gautama Buddha
- Celebrates his birth, enlightenment, and passing
- Coincides with the full moon (Purnima Tithi) in Vaishakha
The exact dates and time of birth and death of Gautam Buddha remain uncertain. Most people believe that he lived between 563 and 483 BC. Lumbini, Nepal is considered to be his birthplace. He attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, Bihar India, and is believed to have died in Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh India at the age of 80.
He overcame the cycle of birth and rebirth by playing the role of philosopher, spiritual guide, religious leader, and dedicated meditator. Buddha Purnima celebrates the ‘Enlightened One’ who attained liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
Follow the Path of Buddha
- Buddha Purnima is a time for spiritual contemplation and following the teachings of the Buddha.
- Followers visit Bodh Gaya, the site of Buddha’s enlightenment, seeking blessings.
- Many people follow traditions like meditation and charity.
Historical Context
- Born as Prince Siddhartha, Gautama Buddha was sheltered from suffering.
- Witnessing human struggles outside the palace walls ignited his search for answers.
- After years of meditation, he attained enlightenment and became known as the Buddha.
What should be done in Buddha Purnima?
On this day devotees devote time to meditation, bhajan-kirtan, and study of Buddhist scriptures. They reflect on the teachings of Gautam Buddha and try to integrate them into their daily lives.
Offerings such as flowers, candles, and incense are offered to Buddha statues to symbolize the impermanence of life. Acts of charity, such as donating food, clothing, or money, are also valued as acts of kindness and compassion.
Many Buddhists choose to follow a vegetarian diet on Vesak. This practice symbolizes the purification of mind and body while promoting compassion towards all living beings.
Vesak is considered an auspicious time for spiritual growth and enlightenment. Devotees strive for a deeper understanding of Buddhist principles.
Is Buddha Purnima auspicious?
Yes, Buddha Purnima is Auspicious!
- Celebrates Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and passing.
- Time for reflection, spiritual growth, and good deeds.
- Believed to bring positive karma and blessings.
- It may be seen as lucky for new beginnings.
Is Buddha Purnima a national holiday?
No, Buddha Purnima is not a national holiday in India. However, it is considered a gazetted holiday.
National Holidays: These holidays are celebrated all over India and most government offices, banks, and schools remain closed. India has only three national holidays: Republic Day (26 January), Independence Day (15 August), and Gandhi Jayanti (2 October).
Gazetted Holidays: The government declares these holidays, and some government offices, banks, and schools may be closed. However, adherence may vary by region or state. It comes in the gazetted holiday category.
