Vesak, also known as Buddha Purnima, is one of the most significant Buddhist festivals, commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha. Celebrated on the full moon day in the month of Vesakha (typically in April or May), Vesak is a public holiday in many countries and is observed with various traditions and rituals. Let's explore how Vesak is celebrated in different parts of the world.
Sri Lanka
In Sri Lanka, Vesak is a major cultural event marked by elaborate decorations, vibrant processions, and various acts of charity. Homes, streets, and public buildings are adorned with lanterns, lights, and colorful flags. The "Vesak Thorana," large illuminated structures depicting scenes from Buddha's life, are a popular attraction. Devotees also visit temples to participate in religious activities, including meditation, chanting, and offering alms to monks.
Thailand
Vesak in Thailand is celebrated with grandeur and deep religious fervor. The day begins with giving alms to monks, followed by listening to sermons and participating in meditation sessions. Temples are beautifully decorated, and Buddhists engage in various merit-making activities such as freeing captive birds and fish. Candlelit processions, known as "Wian Tian," take place in the evening, where devotees walk around temples three times holding flowers, incense, and candles.
Nepal
As the birthplace of Buddha, Nepal holds special significance during Vesak. Thousands of pilgrims visit Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, to pay homage. Celebrations include prayer gatherings, meditation sessions, and ceremonial bathing of the Buddha statues. The Swayambhunath and Boudhanath stupas in Kathmandu also attract large crowds of devotees who light butter lamps and offer prayers.
Myanmar
In Myanmar, Vesak is known as "Kason," celebrated with rituals that emphasize the watering of the sacred Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. Devotees pour water at the base of Bodhi trees in temples across the country. The day also involves listening to Dhamma talks, participating in meditation, and engaging in community service. Pagodas and monasteries are filled with devotees offering flowers and food to monks.
Indonesia
Vesak, or "Waisak" in Indonesia, is celebrated with various rituals and ceremonies, particularly at the Borobudur Temple, one of the world's largest Buddhist monuments. The celebrations include meditation, processions, and the release of sky lanterns. Thousands of monks and devotees gather to participate in the rituals, which culminate in a grand ceremony at Borobudur, featuring chanting and prayers.
India
In India, the birthplace of Buddhism, Vesak is observed with reverence and devotion. Major celebrations take place at Bodh Gaya, where Buddha attained enlightenment. The Mahabodhi Temple is the focal point for rituals, which include meditation, prayer meetings, and offerings of flowers and candles. Additionally, cultural performances and discussions on Buddha's teachings are organized to mark the occasion.
Other Countries
Vesak is also celebrated in countries like China, Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam, each with its unique customs and traditions. In China, it is known as "Fó dàn," and involves temple fairs and lighting lanterns. Japan's "Hanamatsuri" features flower festivals, while South Korea's "Seokga Tansinil" includes lantern parades. In Vietnam, Vesak is marked by temple visits, lantern festivals, and charitable activities.