Buddha Purnima 2022: When and Why to Celebrate the Festival?

Buddha Purnima is observed every year to honor Gautam Buddha. The date of celebration of this day differs every year. This year, it will be observed on Monday, May 16. This is one of the significant festivals for the Buddhist community. 

Date and Time of Celebration 

As per the Hindu calendar, Buddha Purnima is observed on the Purnima tithi in the Vaishakh month. As per the Drik Panchang, this year, Purnima tithi will start at 12:45 pm on May 15 and will end at 9:43 am on May 16. 

History and Significance of the Festival

Buddha Purnima marks the birthday of one of the greatest spiritual leaders, Lord Buddha also known as Gautam Buddha. Gautam Buddha was born Prince Siddhartha Gautam in 623 B.C at Lumbini, currently located in Nepal as per UNESCO. 

As per the beliefs, he regularly meditated in Bodh Gaya under the Bodh tree for 49 days and attained enlightenment. While on his meditation journey, he was trying to find the secret to ending 'suffering'. However, after getting enlightened he spread the message that the road to end suffering goes through the path of The Four Noble Truths. 

He founded the religion Buddhism in which he preached to the followers about the lessons of dharma, non-violence, harmony, kindness, path to nirvana. He believed in 'Karma' and got rid of the regular cycle of birth and rebirth. 

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Zeal for Celebration of this Festival 

Followers of Hinduism and Buddhism celebrate the birthday of Gautam Buddha across the globe with great zeal. People gather together to chant mantras, observe fasts, meditate and offer prayers at the temples. 

Famous Quotes of Gautam Buddha 

- We are shaped by our thoughts, we become what we think. When the mind is pure, joy follows like a shadow that never leaves. 

- Peace comes from within, do not seek it without. 

- Honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom. 

- When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.