Buddha Purnima, the most sacred and largest religious festival of the Buddhists, is being celebrated today across the country with traditional enthusiasm and due religious fervour.
Buddha Purnima, recognised as International Vesak Day by the United Nations since 2000, marks the birth, enlightenment and passing of Gautama Buddha, making it one of the most significant occasions for Buddhists worldwide.
President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman extended greetings to the Buddhist community at home and abroad on the occasion.
In a message, President Mohammed Shahabuddin said Gautama Buddha promoted non-violence, equality, compassion and harmony, and his teachings remain relevant in fostering peace and preventing conflicts.
He said the government is working to build an inclusive and non-discriminatory society, while the Buddhist community continues to contribute to the country’s socio-economic development.
In a separate message, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman stressed equal rights, security and communal harmony, saying the country remains an example of peaceful coexistence among different faiths.
He said ensuring religious freedom, safety and constitutional rights for all citizens remains a priority, with ongoing efforts to protect minority communities.
The day is a public holiday, marked by special articles in newspapers and dedicated programmes on radio and television.
Celebrations begin with the hoisting of national and religious flags and recitations from the Tripitaka, followed by prayers, meditation, charity activities and cultural programmes.
Devotees offer fruits, flowers and candles at Buddhist monasteries, while activities such as discussions, blood donation, feeding the needy and releasing lighted balloons are also observed.
A “peace procession” was brought out from Dharmarajika Buddhist Monastery in Sabujbagh, while Bangladesh Buddhist Federation is organising day-long programmes at Merul Badda.
The day is also being observed in Buddhist-majority areas including Chattogram, Rangamati, Bandarban, Khagrachhari, Cox’s Bazar, Cumilla, Barguna, Rangpur and Sylhet.
