Buddha Purnima is among the most important festivals in the country, especially for the followers of Buddhism. It marks the thrice-blessed day of the Birth, Enlightenment & Mahaparinirvana of Shakyamuni Buddha. This year Buddha Purnima is celebrated globally on 5th May 2023, coinciding with a partial eclipse of the moon.
At sunrise, the Bhikkus took the Sojong vows. Afterwards, KIBI celebrated with the Tara puja, Buddha Shakyamuni & Sixteen Arhats pujas, and aspiration prayers. Then Kheer (Sweet rice porridge), water and juice were distributed to the public, which was well-taken by many people who enjoyed the blessed day.
After lunch, we read the auspicious Prajnaparamita Sutra in 8,000 Lines, the Collection of Religious Works, the Sutra of the Good Aeon, and concluded with the Mahakala puja.
At night, butter lamps were lit, and prayers of aspiration accompanied the offering of butter lamps.
May all sentient beings be happy and enlightened in time!
