Dhaka: Buddha Purnima, the most sacred and largest religious festival for Buddhists, was celebrated today across Bangladesh with traditional enthusiasm and religious fervour. The day, recognized by the United Nations as International Vesak Day since 2000, marks the birth, enlightenment, and Nirvana of Siddhartha Gautama, making it a significant occasion for Buddhists around the world.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus extended greetings to the Buddhist community and all citizens, emphasizing Bangladesh’s heritage of communal harmony. Highlighting the peaceful coexistence of various faiths in the country for centuries, Yunus commended Gautam Buddha’s teachings of non-violence and peace, underscoring their relevance in building a society free from violence and discrimination.
Yunus affirmed his interim government’s commitment to development and equal rights for all, expressing hope that the Buddhist community would contribute significantly to transforming Bangladesh into a non-discriminatory nation by embracing Buddha’s doctrines. The chief adviser also wished success for all programs organized to commemorate Buddha Purnima, which was observed as a public holiday.
The occasion was marked by national and regional dailies publishing special articles, while Bangladesh Betar, Bangladesh Television, and private channels broadcasted programs highlighting the day’s significance. Celebrations commenced with the hoisting of national and religious flags atop monasteries and the chanting of sacred verses from the Tripitaka at dawn. Devotees offered gifts such as fruits, flowers, and candles to Buddha statues.
The day’s highlights included discussion meetings, meditation, blood donation drives, offerings of pindadana to monks, feeding the destitute, and releasing lighted balloons in the evening. A notable event was the ‘peace procession’ organized by Bangladesh Bouddha Kristi Prachar Sangha, which saw a large turnout of devotees parading through Dhaka’s streets from Sabujbagh Dharmarajika Buddhist Monastery.
Additionally, the Bangladesh Buddhist Federation hosted a daylong program, including a discussion at the International Buddhist Monastery in Merul Badda. Buddha Purnima was also celebrated in the Buddhist-populated regions of Chattogram, Rangamati, Bandarban, Khagrachhari, Cox’s Bazar, and Sylhet.