Dhaka: Buddha Purnima, revered as the most sacred and largest religious festival for Buddhists, is being celebrated across the country today with traditional enthusiasm and due religious fervor.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, this festival is recognized globally as The International Vesak Day by the United Nations since 2000. It marks three pivotal events in the life of Buddha that occurred on the same day: the birth of Siddharta Gautama, his attainment of supreme enlightenment, and his entry into Nirvana, the ultimate cessation of all desires.
On this auspicious occasion, Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus extended his greetings to the Buddhist community and the entire nation. In his message, Yunus highlighted Bangladesh as a symbol of communal harmony, where people of all faiths, irrespective of race, religion, and caste, have coexisted peacefully for millennia. He emphasized that Bangladesh serves as a secure home for everyone, regardless of their religious beliefs or backgrounds.
Yunus reflected on the teachings of Gautam Buddha, noting how he illuminated humanity by transcending greed and desire. Buddha's message of non-violence aimed to foster peace and welfare among people. Yunus affirmed his interim government's commitment to ensuring development and equal rights for all citizens, irrespective of race, religion, or caste. He expressed that adhering to Buddha's ideals could significantly contribute to building a Bangladesh devoid of violence, hatred, and conflict.
The chief adviser praised the Buddhist community's longstanding contribution to the socio-economic development of Bangladesh and expressed hope that their continued efforts would aid in transforming the nation into a non-discriminatory society, inspired by Buddha's teachings. He wished for the overall success of all Buddha Purnima-related programs.
The day is observed as a public holiday. Special articles will be published in national and regional dailies, while Bangladesh Betar, Bangladesh Television (BTV), and private TV channels will air special programs highlighting the day's significance.
Celebrations commenced with the hoisting of national and religious flags atop monasteries nationwide, accompanied by chanting sacred verses from the Tripitaka at dawn. Devotees are anticipated to present offerings such as fruits, flowers, and candles to statues of Lord Buddha throughout the day.
Key events include discussion meetings, meditation sessions, blood donation drives, offerings of pindadana to monks, feeding the destitute, and releasing lighted balloons in the evening sky. The Bangladesh Bouddha Kristi Prachar Sangha will lead a colorful 'peace procession' from Sabujbagh Dharmarajika Buddhist Monastery, parading through city streets. The Bangladesh Buddhist Federation (BBF) is organizing a daylong program, including a discussion at the International Buddhist Monastery in Merul Badda.
Additionally, Buddha Purnima is being celebrated in Buddhist-populated regions such as Chattogram, Rangamati, Bandarban, Khagrachhari, Cox's Bazar, and Sylhet.