Buddha Purnima—also known as Vesak or Buddha Jayanti—is celebrated globally to mark the birth of Lord Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. The day also commemorates his enlightenment after years of meditation in pursuit of truth.
Lumbini, located in present-day Nepal, holds immense spiritual and cultural importance as the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama—who would go on to become the Buddha, the enlightened one.
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, Lumbini is a place of deep reverence for millions of Buddhists around the world. It is believed that in 563 BCE, Queen Maya Devi, wife of King Suddhodana of the Shakya clan, gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama in the serene gardens of Lumbini.
According to legend, Queen Maya Devi gave birth while standing under a sal tree, holding one of its branches. This sacred site marks the beginning of Buddha’s remarkable journey toward enlightenment.
Lumbini is not only a historical site but also a spiritual haven. The sacred garden is adorned with monasteries, stupas, temples, and archaeological treasures that reflect the rich legacy of Buddha’s birth and teachings.
At the heart of Lumbini stands the Mayadevi Temple—a revered monument marking the exact location of Siddhartha Gautama’s birth. The temple houses a marker stone and an ancient stone relief depicting the nativity scene. Pilgrims from across the world visit this holy site to meditate, pray, and pay homage to the enlightened one.
Buddha Jayanti is a profound occasion in Lumbini, attracting devotees from diverse Buddhist traditions. The day is marked by spiritual rituals, meditation sessions, sutra chanting, and acts of charity.
Festivities begin at dawn at the Maya Devi Temple with the hoisting of the Buddhist flag and offerings of incense, flowers, and candles. Pilgrims engage in devotional activities such as circumambulating the sacred garden, attending teachings on Buddha’s life, and practicing compassion.
Buddha Jayanti is an ideal time to explore not just Lumbini, but also other sacred Buddhist sites across Nepal. It is a national holiday observed by both Hindus and Buddhists.
Nepal is home to thousands of Buddhist chaityas, especially in the Kathmandu Valley. Notable pilgrimage sites like Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Namo Buddha Stupa, and Guru Rinpoche’s cave in Pharping host special events, butter lamp offerings, and teachings on this day.
Thousands of devotees visit these sacred locations to reflect on Buddha’s teachings, make offerings, and commit to righteous living.
On Buddha Jayanti, many followers recommit themselves to the five guiding principles of Buddhism, known as Panchsheel:
Refrain from taking life
Abstain from stealing
Speak the truth
Avoid intoxicants
Remain faithful in relationships
Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, continues to shine as a timeless beacon of enlightenment and compassion. As pilgrims gather here on Buddha Jayanti, they renew their dedication to living mindfully, embracing peace, and spreading goodwill.
Through prayer, reflection, and acts of kindness, the spirit of Buddha Jayanti echoes far beyond the borders of Nepal, reminding the world of the enduring legacy of the enlightened one.