ISLAMABAD: Millions of Buddhists globally celebrated Buddha Purnima, marking the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautama Buddha the other day.
This sacred day, also known as Vesak, is the most important in the Buddhist calendar and was observed with great reverence and festivity in nations across Asia and beyond, including an increasingly notable celebration in Pakistan.
Buddha Purnima was celebrated with enthusiasm, reflecting Pakistan’s rich Buddhist heritage dating back to the Gandhara civilization. Despite being a predominantly Muslim country, Pakistan has a significant history with Buddhism, especially in the regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan, where ancient Buddhist relics and monasteries can be found.
The Taxila Museum and the National Museum in Karachi, both of which house important Buddhist artifacts. The day was marked by interfaith harmony events, with leaders from different religious communities participating in the festivities. The Pakistani government also facilitated cultural programme underlining the historical and cultural ties of Buddhism to the region.
Celebrations on Buddha Purnima
Across the world, the celebrations stressed Buddha’s teachings of peace, compassion, and non-violence. In his Vesak message, the Dalai Lama underlined the relevance of Buddha’s principles in today’s world, urging followers to cultivate inner peace and contribute to global harmony.
In many places, the day also involved social service activities. Free medical camps, blood donation drives, and distribution of food to the needy were arranged, reflecting the Buddhist tenet of selfless service.
Buddha Purnima 2024 was a day of reflection and reverence for Buddhists across the globe. From grand temples in Sri Lanka to the museums of Pakistan, the world came together to honor the legacy of Buddha. The observance not only underlined the spiritual significance of the day but also fostered a spirit of unity and compassion across diverse communities, reinforcing the universal values espoused by Buddha over 2 millennia ago.
