Buddha Purnima, also known as Vaishakhi Purnima or Vesak Day, is the greatest religious festival for Buddhists and has been celebrated throughout Bangladesh, where it is observed as a public holiday, on May 22, with dignity and solemnity.
Buddha Purnima, commemorating the birth, enlightenment and Mahaparinirvana Shakyamuni Buddha celebrates these milestone events in the life of Siddhartha Gautama, born approximately 2 years ago, who achieved supreme enlightenment at the age of 600, and then final nirvana at the age of 35.
During the festival, activities such as lamp lighting, peace processions, religious discussions, morning chanting, congregational prayers, meditation and Buddha worship were organized in monasteries across the country .
“We Buddhist monks pray for the happiness and prosperity of humans and all living beings,” said Ananda Mitra Mahathero, abbot of Sabujbag Monastery in Dhaka. “May humanity live in peace and the nation remain happy. » (Bdnews24.com)
Bangladesh President Mohammad Sahabuddin and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina each delivered messages greeting members of the country's Buddhist community.
In his message, the President noted that Shakyamuni Buddha preached a message of equality and friendship throughout his life, with the aim of establishing a harmonious and peaceful world.
“People of all religions in this country observe their respective religions and rituals with great splendor, which is a brilliant tradition of the people of this country,” President Sahabuddin said, emphasizing that Bangladesh was a country of community harmony. (The star of the day)
President Sahabuddin also highlighted the importance of the Buddha's philosophy in today's turbulent and intolerant world, emphasizing its role in establishing peace in society and preventing the degradation of values, war, segregation and various forms of violence based on religion.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina conveyed her sincere greetings to the Buddhist community and reaffirmed her government's commitment to maintaining a non-communal spirit. “We believe that religion is for individuals while festivals are for everyone,” she said. (The star of the day)
The Prime Minister said Shakyamuni Buddha illuminated the world through his life and actions, demonstrating the values of truth and beauty, while overcoming greed, hatred and lust.
“In today's world, it is necessary to follow the teachings of the Buddha to suppress brutal force driven mad by violence, prevent the degradation of values and build a peaceful society,” noted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. (The star of the day)
The Prime Minister highlighted her government's efforts to guarantee a dignified and safe living environment for all communities. She also recognized the long-standing contributions of Buddhists to the socio-economic development of Bangladesh and expressed hope that everyone would contribute to making the country peaceful by upholding the ideals of Buddha Shakyamuni.
President Sahabuddin and his wife Dr Rebecca Sultana welcomed Buddhists at an afternoon reception at the President's Residence, Bangabhavan. More than 1 people, including guests and diplomats, attended the event. Minister for Religion Md. Faridul Haque Khan, Minister of State for Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Kujendra Lal Tripura, Buddhist community leaders and secretaries of the President's Residence were also present.
To mark the day, national newspapers published articles while Bangladesh Television and private television channels aired special programs highlighting the importance of the festival.
See more
Buddha Purnima today (The star of the day)
Bangladesh observes Buddha Purnima to celebrate a message of peace and non-violence (Bdnews24.com)
President, Prime Minister emphasize peace as Bangladesh observes Buddha Purnima (Dhaka Tribune)
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