Buddha Purnima commemorates the birth of Buddha, an essential part of the Vesak festival. (Image: Shutterstock)
Buddha Purnima 2023: In India, it is considered a public holiday. As a result, government offices, post offices and banks are closed on this day
BUDDHA PURNIMA 2023: Buddha Purnima, also known as Buddha Jayanti, is an annual festival celebrating the birthday of Siddhartha Gautama, who is known as the founder of Buddhism. It is an important festival for Buddhists around the world and is characterized by great pomp and ceremony.
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From the festival’s origins over 2,500 years ago to the contemporary celebrations in different parts of the world, let’s take a look at what makes the Buddha Purnima such an important occasion for Buddhists.
Is Buddha Purnima a National Holiday?
Buddha Purnima is not a national holiday in all countries. In India, it is considered a public holiday. As a result, government offices, post offices and banks are closed on this day. Shops and businesses owned by people who follow Buddhism may also be closed or have limited hours.
Buddha Purnima 2023: date and time
This year, in 2023, Buddha Jayanti will be celebrated on May 5 in India and Nepal. This day commemorates the birth of Buddha, an essential part of the Vesak festival that honors three major events in his life: his enlightenment, birth and death.
The timing of Buddha Purnima Tithi in 2023 is as follows:
- The Buddha Purnima Tithi begins on May 4 at 11:44 PM.
- Buddha Purnima Tithi ends May 5 at 11:03 PM.
Buddha Purnima 2023: History
Buddha Purnima has a rich history dating back over 2500 years. It is believed that Lord Buddha was born in Lumbini, in present-day Nepal, around 563 BCE. He was born into a royal family and his name was Siddhartha Gautama. At the age of 29, he renounced his luxurious life and embarked on a spiritual quest to find the truth about life and suffering. After six years of intense meditation and spiritual practice, he attained enlightenment under a Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India. He spent the rest of his life teaching the path to enlightenment.
Buddha Purnima 2023: Celebrations
- The celebration of Buddha Jayanti varies from region to region, but usually involves visiting temples, saying prayers, and lighting candles and incense.
- Many Buddhists also participate in community service, such as feeding the hungry or donating to charity.
- In some countries, such as Sri Lanka and Thailand, elaborate processions are held in which people dressed in traditional clothes carry images of Lord Buddha.
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