Buddha Purnima to be observed today

Buddha Purnima is being observed today (1 May) across the country with traditional enthusiasm, religious devotion and various programmes marking the birth, enlightenment and Mahaparinirvana of Gautama Buddha.

The day, recognised by the United Nations as International Vesak Day in 2000, holds deep significance for Buddhists worldwide as it commemorates three key milestones in the life of Buddha. 

It is also a public holiday in Bangladesh.

Buddhist communities across the country are celebrating the occasion in monasteries, religious institutions and educational establishments through daylong programmes. The day began at dawn with the hoisting of national and religious flags, followed by chanting of verses from the Tripitaka.

Religious activities include alms-breaking by monks, mass prayers, Sangadana, discussions, and observance of Panchashila and Asthashila. Devotees are also participating in Pradip Puja and other traditional rituals. One of the main attractions of the festival is the release of candle-lit coloured paper balloons, locally known as fanush, into the evening sky.

The festival, also known as Ashwini Purnima, marks the end of a three-month monastic retreat and is followed by a month-long period of sermons and robe offerings by monks.

In separate messages, President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman extended greetings to the Buddhist community at home and abroad, highlighting Buddha's teachings of non-violence, compassion, equality and peace.

They said Bangladesh remains an example of communal harmony, where people of all faiths practice their religions freely, and reaffirmed the government's commitment to ensuring religious freedom and inclusive development for all communities.