Budha Jayanti

Budha Jayanti, or the festival dedicated to lord Buddha, is one of the most important festivals celebrated by Buddhist and Hindu followers alike. The festival, which falls on the full moon day of Baisakh ( March-April), marks the birthday, the the day of enlightenment and the day of death of lord Buddha. Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, wears a festive look during this festivals. According to a Buddhist legend, Buddha's wife Yashodhara, his first disciple Ananda, his charioteer Channa, and the horse Kantaka on which he renounced his kingdom to 'find some answers to life', were all born on the sacred day of Buddha Jayanti, also known as Buddha Purnima. Thousands of devotees parade in the streets propagating the message of peace. The festival is celebrated throughout the country.

History :

It is believed that immediately after his birth, Siddartha took seven steps towards the north and raising a finger in the air, indicating ‘he was the supreme of the world and that was his final birth’.

Siddhartha then was born near a pond in Lumbini Garden way to his grandfather’s house. He was given a bath at the pond in the Lumbini garden. The pond is known as Siddhartha Kunda. Kunda means a small pond in Sanskrit. Mayadevi’s idol was built at the very spot where Siddhartha was born. Maya Devi died seven days after giving birth to Siddartha Gautam.Siddartha grew up to be a very good prince. He loved all living beings. He was married to Yasodhara at 16 and had a son Rahul. Until age of 29 Siddartha lived luxurious life of a Prince. He had all pleasures and comforts, a prince could have.