Buddha Purnima, also known as Vesak or Buddha Jayanti, commemorates the birth, enlightenment (nirvana), and death (parinirvana) of Lord Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. It falls on the full moon day (Purnima) in the month of Vaisakha (April–May).

This sacred day is celebrated by Buddhists around the world, as well as by Hindus in India and Nepal who honor Buddha as an avatar of Lord Vishnu.

🕉️ Spiritual Significance

Buddha Purnima marks:

  • The birth of Siddhartha Gautama in Lumbini (present-day Nepal).
  • His enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya.
  • His Mahaparinirvana (final passing) at Kushinagar.

It is a day to reflect on peace, non-violence, compassion, and the path to liberation (moksha) through right conduct and wisdom.

🙏 Buddha Purnima Puja Rituals

  • Early Morning Rituals:
    • Devotees wake up early, bathe, wear white or simple clothes, and clean their homes and prayer areas.
  • Buddha Puja:
    • Statues of Buddha are bathed in water and fragrant flowers, symbolizing purification.
    • Offerings include flowers, candles, incense, fruits, and vegetarian food.
    • The Bodhi tree (or a symbolic one) is also worshipped with deep reverence.
  • Chanting and Meditation:
    • Devotees recite Buddhist scriptures, chant “Buddham Sharanam Gacchami, Dhammam Sharanam Gacchami, Sangham Sharanam Gacchami”, and meditate on Buddha’s teachings.
    • Many observe silence or read the Dhammapada, reflecting on Dharma (righteousness).
  • Acts of Compassion:
    • Practicing kindness, giving alms, and feeding the poor or animals are central to the celebration.
    • Releasing birds or animals is symbolic of freedom and compassion.
  • Non-Violence and Fasting:
    • Many observe vegetarian diets, avoid harming any life, and follow self-discipline on this day.

🌼 Message of Buddha Purnima

Buddha Purnima inspires us to follow the Noble Eightfold Path—right view, intention, speech, action, livelihood, effort, mindfulness, and concentration—to achieve inner peace and liberation from suffering. It’s a time to embody compassion, humility, and mindfulness.