The birthday of the historical Buddha, also known as Vesak in many countries, commemorates the birth of Prince Siddhartha, who later became the Buddha, around the end of the 4th century B.C. This significant occasion is celebrated on varying dates depending on the school of Buddhism or country of observance.
In several Asian countries, Vesak is observed on the eighth day of the fourth month of the lunisolar calendar, falling on May 15 this year. In South and Southeast Asian countries, it is celebrated on the first full moon of May, which falls on May 23.
Buddha's Birth and Life
Siddhartha was born in Lumbini, at the border of present-day India and Nepal. His mother, Queen Maya, dreamt of an auspicious white elephant entering her womb when she conceived him. According to Buddhist tradition, the child's miraculous birth involved divine interventions and symbolic gestures.
Despite his father's efforts to shield him from suffering, Siddhartha encountered sickness, old age, and death, prompting him to seek enlightenment. After years of ascetic practice, he attained enlightenment at 35 in Bodh Gaya, becoming the Buddha, or 'the awakened one.'
Celebrating Buddha's Birthday
Buddhists worldwide use this occasion to celebrate and reflect on Buddha's teachings. The day marks not only his birth but also his enlightenment and passing. Devotees visit temples for chanting, meditation, and festivities. Families decorate their homes with lanterns and gather for feasts.
Koreas
In South Korea, Buddha's birthday is a national holiday. The lotus lantern festival in Seoul features a parade of colorful lanterns shaped like lotus flowers. Temples offer free meals and tea, while festivities include traditional games and arts displays.
In North Korea, though not an official holiday, Buddhist temples have observed Buddha's birthday since 1988. Joint services with South Korea have occurred during periods of eased tensions.
China
In China, a bathing ceremony involves pouring scented water over a statue of the infant Buddha. Legend has it that dragons baptized the Buddha with pure water shortly after his birth.
Japan
Japan celebrates Buddha's birthday on April 8 as Hana Matsuri, the flower festival. Devotees pour sweet tea over a statue of the baby Buddha, symbolizing his birth. The nativity festival recreates Buddha's birth in Lumbini.
South and Southeast Asia
Countries in this region celebrate Buddha's birthday on the full moon of the second lunar month, known as Vesakha or Vaisakha. Devotees perform special prayers at the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya and serve sweet rice porridge in India and Nepal.
In Malaysia and China, animals are set free as a gesture of good karma. Sri Lanka decorates homes with lanterns and holds devotional activities, while Vietnam celebrates with festivals and devotional songs.
