Buddha Jayanti best wishes

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, May 12: President Ramchandra Paudel has extended his best wishes for happiness, peace, and prosperity to all Buddhist followers, as well as to all Nepali brothers and sisters living both in the country and abroad, on the auspicious occasion of the 2569th Buddha Jayanti on Monday. This day commemorates Gautam Buddha, founder of Buddhist philosophy, the apostle of peace and the pride of the nation.

Buddha Jayanti is celebrated on the full moon day of the waxing fortnight in the month of Baisakh, marking three significant events in the life of Gautam Buddha—his birth, enlightenment, and Mahaparinirvana, all of which occurred on this same day. As such, the day holds immense importance for Buddhists worldwide as a time to express deep reverence and devotion toward Gautam Buddha.

In his message, President Paudel stated that it is a matter of great pride for all Nepalis that Nepal is the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, who is universally revered as a symbol of peace.

He said, “I believe that by following the inspiring teachings and guidance of the messenger of peace, Buddha, we can strengthen national unity by fostering tolerance and mutual goodwill amidst our religious, social and cultural diversity.” Concluding his message, the President expressed hope that the 2569th Buddha Jayanti will inspire all of humanity to embrace a campaign for peace, coexistence, tolerance and mutual respect guided by the timeless teachings of Gautam Buddha.

Similarly, Vice President Ramsahay Prasad Yadav also extended best wishes for happiness, peace, prosperity, and continued progress to all Nepali Buddhist brothers and sisters at home and abroad on the occasion. 

In his message, the Vice President emphasised that Buddha Jayanti highlights the enduring relevance of peace, non-violence, love, and self-awareness in human life. 

He noted that in today’s world, marked by conflict, tension, violence, and inequality. Buddha’s teachings offer a path forward rooted in friendship, compassion, peace, and non-violence.

He further stated that the birth of Gautam Buddha as Siddhartha Gautam around 563 BC in Lumbini, Nepal, represents an unparalleled contribution of Buddhism to Nepali culture. 

The Vice President stressed the importance of preserving, enhancing, and developing the historical and sacred sites associated with Buddha, including his birthplace Lumbini, Tilaurakot in Kapilvastu, where he spent his early years; Ramgram, where his relics were found, and Devadaha, His mother’s place.