- By Kashish Rai
- Sat, 10 May 2025 12:19 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Buddha Purnima 2025, Buddha Jayanti or Vesak is one of the most important festivals in Buddhism. This sacred day commemorates three major events of the life of Gautam Buddha: his birth, enlightenment and demise. Buddha Purnima holds deep religious importance as it commemorates the milestones that characterised his teachings and the path of enlightenment. Devotees of Gautam Buddha observe this sacred day by offering prayer, spiritual rituals and meditation. Buddha Purnima falls this year on 12th May 2025.
Check out all the significant details regarding the date, time, significance and rituals of Buddha Purnima below:
Buddha Purnima 2025: Date And Time
- Buddha Purnima 2025 Date: 12th May 2025, Monday
- Purnima Tithi Starts: 08:01 PM, 11th May 2025
- Purnima Tithi Ends: 10:25 PM, 12th May 2025
Buddha Purnima 2025: Significance
Buddha Purnima is highly significant for Buddhists, both in India and globally. Gautama Buddha, who was a great spiritual teacher, gave up material pleasures to live an austere and simple life. He devoted his time and life to preaching the values of equality, kindness and universal love for all living things. As the renowned founder of Buddhism, Lord Buddha's life and teachings still inspire millions. Buddha Purnima is especially sacred, being the day when three landmark events occurred in his life: his birth, his enlightenment and his passing away. His devotees celebrate this day by reminiscing over his preachings and adopting them as the formula to get rid of misery and acquire peace in life. Buddha's focus on being mindful, meditating and being compassionate provides a way to spiritual development and emancipation from the sufferings of life.
Buddha Purnima or Vesak marks the birth, death and enlightenment anniversary of Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. (Image Source: Freepik)
Buddha Purnima 2025: Rituals
On Buddha Purnima, Buddhists visit temples of Gautama Buddha, where they spend hours listening to sermons by monks. Buddhist devotees tend to visit several temples during the day, chanting old verses and pondering over the words of Buddha. Cultural and religious events are organised in these temples, drawing visitors from far and near. These events deal with the life and mission of Gautama Buddha, giving a deeper understanding of his spiritual path.
The majority of temples feature statues of Gautama Buddha, with his childhood years illustrated. Statues are placed in water vessels and decorated with new flowers. Spilling water on the statues to symbolise a clean, fresh start and spiritual renewal is one of the most significant rituals. The ritual encourages cleansing the mind and soul, which reflects the teachings of inner peace and enlightenment.
On Buddha Purnima or Vesak, Buddhists concentrate on the five principles, or 'Panchsheel’, and most devotees wear white robes and follow a clean vegetarian diet. Charity is an important part, with individuals giving away food, clothing and money to the needy, as well as releasing caged animals as a symbol of compassion.
(Disclaimer: This content includes advice providing generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified spiritual or astrological opinion. Always consult a specialist for more information before adopting any measures.)
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