CELEBRATING BUDDHA PURNIMA - VESAK: THE DAY OF THE FULL MOON

The Mahabodhi Society, Bengaluru is pleased to announce the week-long celebrations of Buddha Purnima (Vesak Day) from 6 May to 12 May 2025, marking the sacred birth, enlightenment, and Mahaparinibbana of the Buddha. In these times of conflict, violence, and deepening divisions, the Buddha's eternal message of Ahimsa (non-violence), compassion, and universal brotherhood stands as a clarion call to humanity's conscience.

VESAK AS A GLOBAL CELEBRATION

Recognizing the profound spiritual and moral influence of the Buddha's teachings, the United Nations General Assembly, at its 45th plenary meeting on 13 December 1999. formally acknowledged Vesak Day as a United Nations International Day of observance to be celebrated annually across member states.

On this occasion, UN Secretary-General António Guterres shared a message of global solidarity:

"On this Day of Vesak, I extend my warmest wishes to Buddhists worldwide as they commemorate the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha. The Buddha's teachings of compassion, tolerance, and selfless service resonate deeply with the values of the United Nations. In an era of profound global challenges, these timeless principles must guide our shared path forward. As we honor this sacred occasion, may we be inspired to bridge divides, foster solidarity, and work together towards a more peaceful. sustainable, and harmonious world. Happy Vesak Day to all."

20TH UNITED NATIONS DAY OF VESAK CELEBRATIONS

This year, the 20th United Nations Day of Vesak Celebrations will be held in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from 6 to 8 May 2025, under the theme: "Unity and Inclusivity for Human Dignity: Buddhist Insights for World Peace and Sustainable Development. "The gathering will reflect on the relevance of the Buddha's vision in shaping a just and peaceful world order.

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A SPECIAL MILESTONE IN KARNATAKA

This year's Vesak celebrations hold special significance for the Buddhist community in Karnataka. We are deeply grateful to the Government of Karnataka, which, through its official circular dated: 08-04-2025 has designated Buddha Purnima as a State-level celebration from this year onwards. This inclusive and visionary gesture not only affirms the Buddha's legacy in the cultural fabric of Karnataka but also reinforces the values of interfaith harmony, peace-building, and spiritual unity.

MAHABODHI SOCIETY'S WEEK-LONG PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

6 May 2025-Inaugural Ceremony at Mahabodhi Society, Bengaluru

7 May 2025 Tree Plantation Drive, promoting ecological balance and the Buddha's reverence for all life

6-10 May 2025-Dhamma Lectures at universities and colleges across Bengaluru, engaging students and scholars in reflections on Buddhist philosophy and ethics.

9 May 205-Free Medical Camp in Collaboration with Brains Hospitals and Animal Service

12 May 2025-Main Buddha Jayanti Celebration at Mahabodhi Society, with Dhamma talks, cultural performances, and community participation

INTER-FAITH DIALOGUE: "PEACE BEYOND BORDERS"

A highlight of this year's observance will be the Inter-Faith Dialogue on the theme:

"Peace Beyond Borders: Spiritual Healing in a Fractured World." The dialogue will bring together faith leaders, scholars, and peace builders from diverse traditions to reflect on the relevance of Buddha's message in an era torn by hatred, war, and communal strife. The event aims to foster mutual respect and spiritual solidarity, encouraging collective commitment to peace, coexistence, and human dignity.

We warmly invite all citizens, faith communities, scholars, and seekers of peace to join us in this celebration. Let us walk together on the noble path shown by the Buddha, toward a future guided by wisdom, compassion, and harmony.