Nation celebrates Buddha Purnima

NEW DELHI - The nation is celebrating Buddha Purnima, the birth anniversary of Lord Buddha, today.

In Bihar, the event is celebrated with both religious fervour and serenity. The main function is organized at Bodha Gaya where Lord Budhha was gained enlightenment under a Pipal tree.

Buddhist from several countries have arrived in Bodh Gaya to participate in mass a special prayer on the occasion.

Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, will participate in a function in Patna.

He will also inaugurate the Buddha Smirti Park, which is spread over 22 acres and has been built at the cost of Rs 1.25 billion.

Delegates from Thailand, Sri Lanka, Japan and Myanmar will also attend the park’s inauguration.

In Uttar Pradesh, pilgrims from across the globe have thronged Sarnath, Kushinagar and Kapilvastu palces associated with Lord Buddha, where special prayers are being organised.

In Meghalaya, the Buddhist community ahs organised the platinum jubilee celebration of the Shillong Buddhist Temple.

State Governor Dr R S Moosahari will inaugurate the programme this afternoon. Several cultural programmes have also been scheduled.

Buddha Purnima falls on the Full Moon day. This day holds special significance for followers of Lord Buddha as all three main events of his life took place on the same day.

The message of Lord Buddha inspires to follow the path of truth, peace and compassion and serve humanity to affirm our faith in the eternal values of non-violence and universal brotherhood. (ANI)