Buddha Purnima, also known as Buddha Jayanti or Vesak, is one of the most significant and sacred days for Buddhists around the world. Observed on the first full moon of the Hindu month of Vaishakh (typically in April or May), it commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and Mahaparinirvana (death) of Prince Siddhartha Gautama, who later became known as Gautama Buddha—the founder of Buddhism.
In 2025, Buddha Purnima will be celebrated on Monday, May 12, in many parts of the world, including India. However, as per the Buddhist lunar calendar observed in India and Nepal, the date falls on May 23, 2025.
What makes Buddha Purnima especially unique is that it is not only the celebration of Lord Buddha’s birth but also marks the day of his enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya and his final liberation in Kushinagar. For Buddhists, it is a day that represents the entire spiritual journey of the Buddha—from human prince to awakened being.
The origins of global observance can be traced back to May 1960, when the World Fellowship of Buddhists declared Vesak to be celebrated annually on the first full moon day in May, uniting Buddhists across traditions and geographies.
Buddha Purnima is celebrated not just in India but in many countries including Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, China, Japan, Korea, and Indonesia. The day is known by different names in various regions—Hanamatsuri in Japan, Phat Dan in Vietnam, Saga Dawa in Tibet, Waisak in Indonesia, Visakha Bucha in Thailand, and Hari Wesak in Malaysia.
In India, the festival holds particular importance in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh—the site where the Buddha delivered his first sermon. Major celebrations also take place in Bodh Gaya, Ladakh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh, attracting thousands of devotees and pilgrims.
On Buddha Purnima, Buddhist temples are beautifully decorated and illuminated. Devotees wear white clothing—symbolising purity and simplicity—and refrain from consuming non-vegetarian food.
Many offer candles, incense, flowers, fruits, and sweets to Buddha’s idol. A symbolic ritual practiced widely involves pouring water over a Buddha statue, signifying the heavenly offerings he received at birth.
A notable tradition involves the preparation and distribution of kheer (sweet rice pudding). According to legend, a woman named Sujata offered kheer to the starving ascetic Siddhartha shortly before his enlightenment—making it a symbolic dish on this day.
Acts of charity, including donation of food, medicine, and clothes to the needy, are common. People also free birds and animals from cages—an act symbolising compassion and liberation.
In monasteries, monks chant sutras (Buddhist scriptures), meditate, and share discourses on the teachings of the Buddha, emphasising the path of Dhamma (righteous living), sila (moral conduct), and samadhi (meditation).
In today’s fast-paced, often divided world, the teachings of Gautama Buddha—centered around peace, mindfulness, compassion, and non-violence—resonate more than ever. His message urges us to look inward, practise self-discipline, and live with awareness and empathy.
Buddha Purnima is more than a religious festival; it's a global reminder of the power of inner transformation and the enduring relevance of ancient wisdom in modern times.
As we approach Buddha Purnima 2025, let us not just celebrate the historical figure of Buddha, but also embrace the spirit of his teachings. Whether you’re lighting a lamp, sharing a meal, or simply sitting in silent reflection—this day invites us to reconnect with values that uplift humanity.
May this Buddha Purnima bring you peace, clarity, and kindness in thought and action.
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