Today marks Buddha Purnima, a significant day for Buddhists, as it commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing into Nirvana of Lord Gautama Buddha. Across the country, the Buddhist community is celebrating this occasion with deep religious reverence and spiritual ambiance.

Since early morning on Sunday, May 11, prayers, rituals, and special events for peace are taking place at Buddhist temples and monasteries in Dhaka and other parts of Bangladesh. Devotees are offering flowers, lighting lamps, and reciting sacred texts in reverence. Through these ceremonies, participants are praying for world peace and the welfare of humanity.

In recognition of Buddha Purnima, both the President and the Chief Advisor of the interim government have issued separate messages, wishing for peace and prosperity within the Buddhist community.

To ensure safety, security measures have been strengthened at Buddhist monasteries across the country, with law enforcement agencies coordinating with local authorities to maintain peace. The teachings of Buddha, symbolizing peace and tolerance, are particularly relevant in today’s society. Buddhists hope that the message of peace and harmony will spread among all citizens on this auspicious day.

Buddhist leaders have mentioned that there are around 5,500 Buddhist monasteries in the country. On this auspicious day, various activities such as Buddha puja, precepts-taking, recitation, peace rallies, and religious discussions will take place. Special prayers will be held for the peace and well-being of all humanity.

In Dhaka, at the Merul Badda International Buddhist Monastery, a full-day program is scheduled, including Buddha Puja at 10 AM, precept-taking, and a discussion on the significance of Buddha Purnima at 6 PM. The event will be attended by Dr. A F M Khalid Hossain, the religious advisor to the interim government, and chaired by the head of the International Buddhist Monastery, Dharma Mitra Mahathera. Buddhist monasteries across the country, including in Basabo and Uttara, have organized similar events.

The General Secretary of the Bangladesh Buddhist Federation, Venerable Sunandapriya Mahathera, shared that the celebration is a reflection of the non-violent teachings of Gautama Buddha and emphasized the preparations made for this grand observance.