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Vesak is also known as Buddha Jayanti, Buddha Purnima, and Buddha Day. It is celebrated by Buddhists and some Hindus. The occasion honours Siddhartha Gautama, commonly known as Buddha, and highlights the three pivotal stages of his life: birth, enlightenment, and death. According to tradition, it is believed that all three of these events occurred on the same day during his life. It is typically celebrated on the full moon day in May, although the exact date varies depending on the lunar calendar.
The holiday is observed by Buddhists around the world with various rituals and practices, including meditating on the Buddha’s teachings, making offerings to monasteries and temples, and performing acts of kindness and charity. In some countries, such as Sri Lanka and Thailand, Vesak is a public holiday.
One of the most prominent Vesak rituals is the lighting of lanterns, which symbolises the Buddha’s enlightenment and the dispelling of darkness and ignorance. Buddhists may also participate in parades, chant sutras, and release birds or other animals as a gesture of compassion.
Overall, Vesak is an important occasion for Buddhists to reflect on the Buddha’s teachings and their own spiritual practices, and to engage in acts of generosity and kindness towards others.
