The Prime Minister of India recently amplified the teachings of Lord Buddha and pledged to adhere to these principles during the observance of Buddha Purnima. The appearance of the PM at this cultural ritual, which also involved a visit to Nepal, has ignited renewed interest in the profound influence of Gautam Buddha and Buddhism on India’s culture and society.
The Significance of Buddha Purnima
Buddha Purnima is a revered event marking the birth of the foundational figure of Buddhism, Gautam Buddha. Known conversely as Vesak, this occasion fell under the aegis of the United Nations in 1999, asserting its significance in acknowledging Buddhism’s societal contributions. Often referred to as a ‘triple-blessed day’, Buddha Purnima commemorates three vital incidents: the birth, enlightenment, and Maha Parnirvana (death) of Tathagata Gautam Buddha. Celebrated on a full-moon night typically between April and May, India recognises this day as a gazetted holiday. Devotees often flock to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, as it is believed to be the enlightenment site of Lord Buddha.
The Life and Teachings of Gautam Buddha
Born as Siddhartha Gautama roughly in 563 BCE in Lumbini, Gautam Buddha belonged to the Sakya clan. He attained enlightenment, referred to as ‘Bodhi’, under a pipal tree in Bodhgaya, Bihar. His first sermon unfurled in the village of Sarnath, near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, an event celebrated as Dharma Chakra Pravartana or turning of the wheel of law. At the age of 80, in 483 BCE, Buddha breathed his last in Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh, an event commemorated as Mahaparinibban or Mahaparinirvana. He is revered as the eighth among the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu (Dashavatar).
Buddhism and its Influence
Originating in India over 2,600 years ago, Buddhism’s core teachings revolve around the concept of four noble truths or ariya-sachchani and the eight-fold path or ashtangika marg. Central to Buddha’s doctrine are Dukkha (Sufferings) and their extinction. The quintessence of Buddhism lies in attaining enlightenment, or nirvana, an experiential state achievable in life rather than a geographical destination. Unlike most religions, Buddhism does not venerate a supreme god or deity.
Various schools of Buddhism include Mahayana (Idol Worship), Hinayana, Theravada, Vajrayana (Tantric Buddhism), and Zen. Buddhist texts, collectively known as Tipitaka, encompass Vinaya Pitaka (rules for monastic life), Sutta Pitaka (Buddha’s primary teachings), and Abhidhamma Pitaka (a philosophic analysis and systematization of these teachings).
Buddhism’s Contribution to Indian Culture and Heritage
The teachings of Buddhism have deeply permeated the fabric of Indian culture. Perhaps its most significant influence is the concept of ahimsa or non-violence, which has since become a cherished value in the nation. Buddhism’s contribution extends to art and architecture, with stupas at Sanchi, Bharhut, and Gaya standing as remarkable architectural testimonies. It also fostered education through residential universities like those at Taxila, Nalanda, and Vikramasila. Languages like Pali developed through Buddhist teachings, promoting the sprawl of Indian culture to other parts of Asia.
Some of the UNESCO’s Heritage Sites related to Buddhism include the Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara at Nalanda, Bihar, Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi, MP, Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya, Bihar, and Ajanta Caves in Aurangabad, Maharashtra.
