"Revealed: When Is Buddha Purnima/Vesak 2024?"

Buddha Purnima/Vesak: A Public Holiday

Buddha Purnima/Vesak is a day off for many, with schools and most businesses closed.

Activities on Vesak

On Vesak, many Buddhists visit temples to hear monks speak and recite ancient verses. Some spend the entire day in one or more temples. Temples often exhibit a small statue of the baby Buddha, placed in a basin filled with water and adorned with flowers. Visitors pour water over the statue, symbolizing purity and new beginnings.

Observances and Traditions

During Vesak, Buddhists focus on Buddha's teachings, often wearing white robes and consuming only vegetarian food. Additionally, many donate money, food, or goods to aid the less fortunate. As an expression of compassion for all living beings, some purchase caged animals and release them.

Public Life and Celebrations

In India, government offices, post offices, and banks close for Vesak. While some businesses may have reduced hours, transportation remains largely unaffected as locals travel for religious observances.

Historical Background

Gautama Buddha, a spiritual leader in India, lived around the sixth to fourth centuries BCE. His influence persisted long after his death, with many regarding him as the Supreme Buddha. The decision to mark Vesak as his birthday was made during the first World Fellowship of Buddhists conference in Colombo, Sri Lanka, in May 1950. Vesak is celebrated on the Full Moon day in May, although different Buddhist communities may observe it on different dates in years with two full moons.

Symbols of Vesak

During Vesak, the dharmacakra or dharma wheel is a common symbol, representing Buddha's teachings on the path to enlightenment. The wheel, made of wood and featuring eight spokes, symbolizes the noble eightfold path of Buddhism.