Kathmandu: Nepal and Buddhists around the world are celebrating the 2569th Buddha Jayanti, honoring the birth, enlightenment, and Mahaparinirvana (death) of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, who is revered globally as a symbol of peace and non-violence.

The celebration, observed on the full moon day of Baisakh, marks a threefold significance in the life of Buddha—his birth in Lumbini, his attainment of enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, and his passing into Mahaparinirvana in Kushinagar.

Nationwide Celebrations
Special prayers, worship, and spiritual programs are being held in Lumbini, Swayambhunath, and other major Buddhist sites across Nepal. At Swayambhunath Mahachaitya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, devotees and monks have gathered in large numbers to offer prayers. Buddha’s sacred relics are on public display at the Anandakuti Vihara within the complex for darshan (viewing) and worship.

High-ranking dignitaries, including President Ram Chandra Poudel, Buddhist monks, foreign diplomats, and religious leaders, are attending the ceremonies. The president, in his message, emphasized the pride Nepalis feel as the citizens of the birthplace of Gautama Buddha, calling him the “star of Asia” and “forerunner of world peace.”

Message of Peace and Unity
President Poudel noted that Buddha’s teachings—centered on non-violence, compassion, and tolerance—are more relevant than ever. He expressed hope that by following these ideals, Nepalis can strengthen national unity and contribute to global peace.

“On this sacred occasion,” he said, “I extend my heartfelt wishes for happiness, peace, and prosperity to all Nepalis and Buddhists around the world.”

Cultural and Religious Events
Apart from spiritual observances, blood donation drives, public processions, and prasad (offering) distributions are being held, especially in the Swayambhunath area. Traditional Buddhist rituals are also taking place in chaityas, gumbas, and viharas across the country.

Born in 563 BC in Lumbini, Prince Siddhartha Gautama left his royal life at the age of 29 in search of truth. His journey of meditation and penance culminated in enlightenment and the founding of Buddhism, one of the world's major religions.

Buddha Jayanti continues to be not just a day of celebration, but also a moment to reflect on the timeless message of peace, coexistence, and mindfulness that Gautama Buddha gifted to the world.