Buddha Purnima — also known as Buddha Jayanti, Vaishakh Purnima, and Vesak — is one of the most sacred festivals in the Buddhist calendar, celebrated to commemorate the birth of Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. The festival falls on the day of the full moon in the month of May and is observed across the world by millions of Buddhist devotees.
About Buddha Purnima
"Purnima" means full moon day in Sanskrit. Buddha Purnima is celebrated not only in India but in most countries of the world where Buddhism has taken root. In India, it is observed with particular fervour in Sikkim, Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, Bodh Gaya, and in parts of North Bengal — especially in Kalimpong, Darjeeling, Kurseong, and the Dooars.
How Buddha Purnima is Celebrated
On this auspicious day, devout Buddhists visit different monasteries and offer Khada (a traditional white silk scarf symbolising purity and good wishes), fruits, and sweets. People from all ethnic communities are seen making their way to monasteries throughout the day to receive blessings from the head Lamas and to participate in the annual religious rally marking Buddha Purnima.
Kheer — a sweet rice porridge — is traditionally served on this day to recall the story of Sujata, a young maiden who in the life of Gautam Buddha offered him a bowl of milk porridge, restoring his strength after years of austerity. Non-vegetarian food and alcohol are customarily avoided throughout the day.
