On May 12, 2025, the National Museum in New Delhi marked Buddha Purnima, also known as Vesak or Buddha Jayanti, with a heartfelt veneration of the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha. This event, filled with devotion and cultural richness, brought together dignitaries, monks, scholars, and visitors to celebrate the life and teachings of Lord Buddha.
Ceremonial Floral Offerings
Honoring Lord Buddha
The ceremony began with floral offerings led by Minister of Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs & Minority Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju. Shri Rijiju, representing Prime Minister Narendra Modi, extended greetings to the global Buddhist community, emphasizing the timeless relevance of Buddha’s teachings of compassion and harmony. He expressed joy at the widespread participation and reverence for the Sacred Relics, highlighting their spiritual significance.
Exploring the Buddha Gallery
Art and Philosophy of Buddhism
The Ministers embarked on a guided tour of the Buddha Gallery, which showcases the life and teachings of Lord Buddha through a stunning collection of art and antiquities. The Kapilavastu Relics, excavated from Piprahwa, Uttar Pradesh, were the focal point of the celebration. The gallery traces the evolution of Buddhist art from aniconic representations to iconic imagery in Mathura and Gandhara, and its development through Sarnath, Pala, Chola, and Bhaumakara periods. Visitors were captivated by the iconography of Bodhisattvas, Panchatathagatas, and Ishtadevatas in Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions.
Vibrancy of the Thangka Gallery
Symbolism in Scroll Paintings
The Thangka Gallery added a vibrant touch to the event, featuring exquisite scroll paintings like the Bhavachakra (Wheel of Life). These artworks, rich in symbolism and meditative value, left the Ministers and guests in awe. The intricate designs and spiritual depth of the Thangkas highlighted the artistic heritage of Buddhism, offering a visual journey into its philosophical teachings.
Engaging Interactive Activities
Workshops and DIY Counters
The celebration concluded with interactive workshops and DIY activities, engaging visitors of all ages. Activities included Prayer Flag Making, Buddhist Iconography Learning, Thangka Colouring Sheets, Miniature Buddha Crafting, and Buddhist Film Screenings. These hands-on experiences allowed participants to connect with Buddhist culture and art, fostering a deeper appreciation for its heritage.
Key Facts About Buddha Purnima and Buddhist Art
Significance of Buddha Purnima
Buddha Purnima commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and Mahaparinirvana (passing away) of Lord Buddha. Celebrated on the full moon day of the Vaisakha month, it is a time for reflection, meditation, and acts of kindness, embodying Buddha’s teachings of peace and non-violence.
Buddhist Art and Iconography
Buddhist art has evolved over centuries, reflecting diverse cultural influences. Early aniconic symbols like the Bodhi tree and footprints gave way to iconic representations in regions like Mathura and Gandhara. The eight great miracles (ashtamahapratiharya) depict key events in Buddha’s life, while Thangkas serve as meditative tools in Tibetan Buddhism. Artworks featuring Bodhisattvas and Panchatathagatas highlight the spiritual diversity of Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions, making Buddhist art a profound medium of cultural and religious expression.