Buddha Purnima is traditionally known as Vesak or Vesakha since it falls in the month of Vaishakh according to lunar calendar. It is a festival that marks the birth, enlightenment and death of Gautam Buddha. This day usually falls on the day of full moon (Purnima) in the month of May, hence it is also known as ‘Buddha Purnima’. Many of us may not know the amount of divinity that goes into celebrating this festival, therefore, lets enlighten ourselves.
On this day devout Buddhists and followers assemble in various temples before dawn for the ceremonial and honourable hoisting of the Buddhist Flag.
Devotees bring simple offerings of flowers, candles and joss-sticks to lay at the feet of their teacher. They come together to make a special effort to refrain from killing of any kind and are encouraged to partake in vegetarian food for this day.
“Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.”
Certain temples observe the practice of displaying a small statue of Buddha in front of the altar in a basin filled with water and decorated with flowers. Devotees are allowed to pour water over the statue as a symbol of cleansing bad karma.
Buddha Purnima also includes talks given by monks who engage in reciting verses uttered by Buddha 25 centuries ago to invoke peace and happiness.
Celebrating this day does not involve festivities unlike other events, but works as a mean of making special efforts to bring happiness to the unfortunate, the aged, the handicapped and the sick.
“However many holy words you read, however many you speak, what good will they do you if you do not act on upon them?”
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Japan
Sadly, Japan does not have public holiday on this occasion. The festival here, is based on a different legend that says, a dragon appeared in the sky on Buddha’s birthday and poured soma over him, which is a Vedic ritual drink. In the modern arena, Japan celebrates Vesak by pouring amacha, a sweet tea on statues.
Nepal
Nepal is home to Lumbini-birthplace of Buddha, and Swayambhu-the holy temple for Buddhists also known as the Monkey Temple. The main door of Swayambhu is opened only on this day; hence, people from all over Kathmandu valley are stimulated by the event. Pilgrims across the world gather in thousands to celebrate Buddha’s birthday at his birthplace.
Swayambhu Temple
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Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka celebrates Vesak for about one week! During this time, the selling of alcohol and fresh meat is prohibited with abattoirs also being closed. The celebrations here include giving of alms and erection of pandals wherein each pandal illustrates a story from the Jataka Tales. Food stalls are set up by Buddhist devotees that provide eatables and drinks to passersby. Also birds, insects and animals are released by the thousands in what is known as a ‘symbolic act of liberation’; of giving freedom to those who are in captivity, imprisoned, or tortured against their will.
Apart from these, other Asian countries like Korea, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore also participate in processions and prayers by monks and make this day a true symbol of spirituality.
