Today is not only auspicious for the Buddhists, it is also equally important for the Hindus as Lord Buddha being the 9th incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

It was in the year 2000 when I had visited the Orchha Palace near Jhansi in Madhya Pradesh along with my service colleague Sanjay Gupta and was surprised to see the painting indicating Lord Buddha as the 9th incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Later on I observed the carving of Lord Buddha on the walls of Vishnu temple at Janjgir in North Chhatisgarh. Now I believe many of us know about all the incarnations of Lord Vishnu beginning from Matasay (Fish ) to God Kalki (which has still not taken birth).

It is believed that Gautam Buddha was not only born on this day but also got enlightment at Bhodhgaya in Bihar and delivered his first sermon at Sarnath in the State of Uttar Pradesh.He also attained Mahaparinirvana on this day.

This festival is celebrated in Bodhgaya and Sarnath in addition to Laddakh , Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh having good population of Buddhists. It is celebrated in the countries all over the world having population of Buddhists.

Peacock has captured the imagination of Buddhists from the time when Lord Buddha used to gather with monks for annual rainy season retreat as they used to hear the calls of the Peacock. Peacock not only eats snakes and survives but it thrives. For him it is like a nourishment and the brilliant plumage is believed to be on account of this poison.

“Happy Buddha Purnima“ to all as I think best of the teachings for the common people are given by Lord Buddha which if followed will bring peace in life.

Image from Delhi taken in April 2018