Today is the birth anniversary of Gautam Buddha. Among several festivals celebrated in Nepal, Buddha Jayanti is one the most important festivals. This day marks three major events of Lord Buddha’s life: his birth, enlightenment, and attainment of Nirvana.
Gautam Buddha was born in 543 BC in Lumbini, Nepal. He was the son of King Suddhodhan Gautam and Queen Maya Devi. He was married to Yasodhara at the age of 16 and had a son named Rahul. He was living a very peaceful and comfortable life as a prince. At the age of 29, he abandoned his luxurious life and left the palace quietly in his quest to search eternal truth. He started meditating under a tree and after a very long meditation, he understood the facts of life and achieved enlightenment. He then attained Nirvana (salvation) at the age of 80.
This day is also known as Buddha Purnima. It usually falls on the full moon day of Baisakh (a Nepali month). This festival isn’t celebrated only in Nepal but also in several other Asian counties. The government of Nepal gives a public holiday on this day.
On this auspicious occasion, many ceremonies are held in various Buddhist Shrines. Above is the picture of Maya Devi Temple in Lumbini, the birth place of Gautam Buddha. Lumbini is listed as one of the UNESCO world heritage sites. People gather to worship and walk around the shrine in ritual circumlocution. The day is celebrated by offering butter lamps, rice, coins, and flower, and prayer ceremonies to the statues of Gautam Buddha.
Similarly, in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, Buddha Jayanti is celebrated by gathering in two major stupas: Boudhanath and Swayambhunath, which are also listed as UNESCO world heritage sites.
Buddha Jayanti holds a great significance to many people around the world who have been following his teachings.
At the end, wishing everyone a very happy Buddha Jayanti! :)
Image Sources: http://www.besidethehimalayantreks.com/buddhist-cultural-tour-in-nepal.html
https://www.flickr.com/photos/51676096@N05/6043599157
http://navrangindia.blogspot.com/2015/07/the-buddha-and-mahabodhi-temple.html
