Buddha Jayanti
13th May 2006
Buddha
Jayanti, a purnima which falls on the full moon night in
the month of Baisakh, commemorates the birth anniversary
of Lord Buddha, founder of Buddhism, one of the oldest religions
in the world. The three most significant events in the life
of Gautama Buddha occurred on the same day. They celebrate
this day as the day when Buddha was born, when he was enlightened
and when he attained Nirvana.
The
birthday of Lord Buddha. Buddha Jayanti is the special occasion
for both Hindus and Buddhists. His birthplace-Lumbini Grove-is
in the Terai region of Nepal. Buddhists of all persuasions
throughout the Valley, as well as pilgrims from abroad,
honor the Buddha on this day, most particularly at the two
great stupas and the largely Buddhist city of Patan. Activity
at the main Buddhist stupas and shrines begins at dawn.
Swoyambhunath and Bouddhanath are the busiest sites for
the day of Buddha Jayanti. The day is marked with prayer
meets, sermons on the life of Gautam Buddha, religious discourses,
continuous recitation of Buddhist scriptures, group meditation,
processions, worship of the statue of Buddha and symposia.
From early in the morning, devotees can be seen thronging
the shrine with musical bands. Offerings of butter, lamps,
incense and rice to Buddha images around monasteries are
the common sights. All the monasteries around the country
wear a festive look and decorated with colourful flags and
flowers. Sacred "paubha "scroll paintings and Buddha images
are put on display. Special flags fly from all Buddhist
households. This day is observed as a public holiday |
