Buddha Purnima 2023: Significance, History and Puja Vidhi

Buddha Purnima, also known as Vesak or Buddha Jayanti, is a significant Buddhist festival celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Vaisakh, which usually falls in the months of April or May. It commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. Buddha Purnima 2023 will be celebrated on May 5 this year.

Buddha Purnima History

Buddha Purnima holds a significant place in the Buddhist calendar as it marks the birth anniversary of Gautama Buddha, who was born as Prince Siddhartha Gautama in Lumbini, Nepal, over 2,600 years ago. According to legend, his mother Queen Maya Devi gave birth to him while she was on her way to her parents' house in Devadaha. The prince’s birth was marked by several auspicious signs, and it was prophesied that he would become either a great king or a spiritual leader. He renounced his worldly life and became a wandering ascetic, seeking enlightenment, which he ultimately achieved under a Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya. He spent the rest of his life spreading his teachings and guiding his disciples towards the path of liberation and enlightenment. 

Buddha Purnima Significance:

Buddha Purnima is celebrated by Buddhists all over the world with great fervour and devotion.  It is a day for reflection, meditation, and spiritual awakening. Many Buddhists visit temples, offer prayers, and perform various rituals to commemorate Gautama Buddha’s life and teachings. The festival also signifies the triumph of good over evil and the attainment of inner peace and harmony. It is an occasion for people to reflect on the importance of Buddha’s teaching in today’s world and to strive towards following his path of compassion, wisdom, and non-violence. 

Buddha Purnima Celebration:

On Buddha Purnima, Buddhists follow a set of rituals and traditions to honour the Buddha. Here is a brief puja vidhi:

1. Cleanliness: Begin by cleaning your home and surroundings as it symbolizes the purity of the mind.

2. Offerings: Offer flowers, fruits, and incense sticks to the Gautama Buddha's statue or picture as a sign of respect and devotion.

3. Meditation: Sit in a quiet place and meditate to calm your mind and focus on the teachings of the Buddha.

4. Chanting: Recite Buddhist scriptures or mantras to invoke positive energy and blessings.

5. Acts of kindness: Perform acts of kindness, such as donating to charity, helping the needy, or volunteering at a shelter.

Some Buddhists observe a day-long fast and meditate to achieve spiritual purification and enlightenment. 

Overall, Buddha Purnima is a time for introspection and reflection on the teaching of Gautama Buddha. It is an opportunity to imbibe his message of compassion, wisdom, and non-violence in our lives and strive towards attaining inner peace and harmony. As we celebrate Buddha Purnima 2023, let us remember the Buddha’s teaching and strive towards creating a world that is free from suffering and full of compassion and love.