Shakyamuni Buddha, the historical founder of Buddhism, was born in Lumbini, in the Himalayan Ranges. Shakyamuni Buddha was the son of Shuddhodana, the king of the Shakyas, a small tribe whose kingdom was located in the foothills of the Himalayas. Shakya of Shakyamuni is taken from the name of this tribe and muni means saint. His original name was Siddhartha, meant one who had accomplished his aim. But Siddhartha was known all over the world as Buddha, the Enlightened. There is a legend that, at the time of his birth in Lumbini garden, the heavenly gods celebrated by creating a rain of amrta, heavenly nectar. Today this is symbolized in temples by pouring sweet tea over a statue of the infant Buddha.
His Birthday is celebrated on the 8th lunar day of 4th Chinese lunar month, which falls on May 15, 2005. And Vaisakh Puja/Wesak is celebrated on 22nd of May. Although every full moon is sacred, the moon of the month of Vaisakh (April - May) has special significance because on this day the Buddha attained enlightenment, and attained Nirvana.
Buddhist followers in different countries celebrate this great day in different ways. Worshippers show their devotion by bathing the Buddha statues, pay their respects to the Buddha and feasting on vegetarian dishes. Some celebrate by brightly illuminating their homes. Even special care is taken in watering and tending Bodhi trees, since buddha attained enlightenment under a bodhi tree.
Buddha Purnima - Vaisakh Puja is the most important festival of the Buddhists, and is celebrated with great enthusiasm on the full moon day, when buddha attained Nirvana. Every festival has its own rituals, beliefs and customs. They gather in the Place of worship, give alms to monks. They reaffirm their faith in the five principles, Panch Sheel - not to take life, not to die, not to imbibe liquor, not to steal, and not to commit adultery. Read more Fengshui articles | Fengshui Products | 
