Vesak (Buddha Purnima) 2023: Date, History, Facts about Buddha

In some traditions, Vesak on May 5 celebrates Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death. Since 1950, when the World Fellowship of Buddhists designated it as Buddha’s birthday, the holiday has been celebrated officially.

Buddhism is practised by approximately 500 million individuals in dozens of countries worldwide. Vesak is a Buddhist festivity celebrated in a variety of ways, depending on local customs. Because Vesak is based on the Asian lunisolar calendar, it typically falls on the full moon in the Gregorian month of May, though this differs greatly depending on the traditions of each country.

The background of Vesak

Vesak, also known as Wesak, Sanskrit Vaishakha, and Pali Vesakha, is one of the most significant Buddhist festivals, as it commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. The date of the holiday varies based on when the full moon occurs during the lunar month of Vesakha, which typically occurs in April or May. Devotees spend the day attending services and performing Buddha-established duties and rules, such as distributing food or releasing captive birds.

Gautama Buddha, or Prince Siddhartha Gautama as he was named at birth, was born to a tribal leader in Nepal in 490 B.C. When he reached maturity, Gautama founded a sect of ascetics, which grew into a religion after his passing. It is a common misunderstanding that Gautama’s name was Buddha, but this is actually a title that means ‘the enlightened one.’ He devoted his entire existence to teaching and spreading messages of peace, compassion, and generosity towards others. Today, millions of followers around the globe follow Buddha’s teachings. Vesak is a special day commemorating the birth, teachings, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha.

In 1999, the United Nations internationally recognised Vesak Day and acknowledged the contributions of one of the world’s oldest religions, Buddhism, in promoting peace for more than 2,500 years. Vesak is also celebrated annually at the United Nations offices and headquarters, alongside other organisations and Buddhist communities around the globe. This day’s traditions include the performance of cultural song and dance, the delivery of public messages by community leaders, and the decoration of temples. Additionally, more acts of compassion and charity are performed than usual on Vesak Day.

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5 ENLIGHTENING FACTS ABOUT BUDDHA

The three most important teachings of Buddha were to avoid ignorance, hatred, and anger.

Buddha was not overweight, and he spent the majority of his time walking and routinely fasting.

A few days after Buddha’s birth, an old man predicted that he would become a great saint who would transform the world.

Unlike most religions, Buddhism spread through word of mouth and practise without resorting to violence.

Buddha’s final words to his disciples were, “Everything in the universe is subject to change. They are not permanent. Work diligently to achieve your own salvation.

VESAK DATES

Year	Date	Day
2021	May 26	Wednesday
2022	May 16	Monday
2023	May 5	Friday
2024	May 23	Thursday
2025	May 12	Monday