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Buddha Purnima

Buddha Purnima 2021

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  /  Buddha Purnima 2021

Buddha Purnima is among the most important festivals in the country, especially for the followers of Buddhism. It marks the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha. This festival falls on the first full moon day, i.e., Purnima of the Hindu month of Vaisakha in the Gregorian calendar. This year Buddha Purnima will be celebrated globally on 26th May. The significance of this day dates back to the 4th-6th century BC.

Born as Prince Siddhartha in Lumbini, Nepal, Gautama Buddha grew up with princely luxury till he was in his late 20s. When he turned 29, he decided to leave the royalty and set on a quest to find the cause of all the sufferings. Over the next few months, he couldn’t find the answers he needed. But one night, he went into deep meditation and woke up with all the answers; thus, at the age of 35, he became the Buddha. For the rest of his life, he led people along the path of enlightenment.

According to legends, the three critical events, birth, enlightenment, and salvation, all fall on the same day of the year. Thus, this day holds importance for Buddhist followers around the world.

On this special occasion, devotees visit Buddhist shrines to recite hymns and preach his teachings and principles. The State of Karnataka is among the best places to celebrate Buddha Purnima as it is home to many beautiful Buddhist Monasteries. The Namdroling Monastery, popularly known as ‘The Golden Temple,’ is among the country’s most famous and largest Tibetan settlements. The Golden Temple, a famed Buddhist monastery, is home to more than 600 monks and 1600 refugees.  The grandeur and allure are magnified during Buddha Purnima and the Tibetan New Year. Visitors can witness traditional Lama Dances, become a part of processions, and pray.

Besides this, the Bylakuppe region has several other famous monasteries beckoning tourists from across the globe. Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, Ngagyur Tsogyal Shedrub Ling Nunnery, and Hardong Khangtsen of Sera Jey Monastery are other renowned Monasteries where you can celebrate Buddha Purnima 2021.