Bhaktapur Lord Gautam Buddha‘s birthday is observed in Nepal on the Full Moon Day of May. Buddha Jayanti, Buddha Purnima, Baishakh Purnima are some of the titles given to the festival. In Sanskrit, Purnima means “Full Moon Day.” It is extremely important to the Nepalese Newars, particularly the Shakya clan of Newars, because they regard it as a continuation of the sage of the Śākyas, the clan to whom Lord Buddha‘s family belonged. As a result, they celebrate the festival known in their language as Swānyā Punhi (स्वांया पुन्हि), or the Full Moon Day of flowers. The day commemorates Shakyamuni Gautama Buddha‘s birth, as well as his Enlightenment and Mahaparinirvana.
The occasion is marked by a mild and tranquil Fervor, in keeping with Buddhism‘s basic character. People, particularly ladies, visit common Viharas to observe a full-length Buddhist Sutra, which is similar to a liturgy. The standard attire is all-white. Food that isn’t vegetarian is usually avoided. Kheer, or Sweet Rice Porridge, is traditionally presented to commemorate Sujata, a woman who offered the Buddha a bowl of milk porridge.
The Newar Community in Bhaktapur practice Buddhism, which appears to have combined the teachings of other religions. It’s one of my greatest joys to lead Heritage Walks, which have featured various Buddhist sites such as Chaityas, Bihar, Gumba, and other locations across Bhaktapur city.
For Buddhists, Buddha Purnima is the most important day because three major events in the Buddha‘s life are believed to have occurred on this day: his birth, Enlightenment, and Death, or Paranirvana. The Thrice Blessed Festival is held on this day.