Vesak day Celebration

19 May 2020
Photo: picture from Budda

Last Thursday, May 7, 2020, Vesak Day, also known as "Visakha Puja" or "Buddha Day" was celebrated around the world. It is the holiest day in the Buddhist calendar. It commemorates the birth of the Buddha, his illumination and his transit. On this date millions of Buddhists go to the temples and make offerings. The decision to celebrate Vesak worldwide was established in 1950, at a conference of the World Fellowship of Buddhists.

Celebrations: During the "Vesak" the Buddhists meet with their spiritual family, performing collective meditations. In addition to the offerings mentioned above, it is also a day in which meat is not eaten throughout the day. In many countries they dress in colors and commemorate the Buddha's birthday with prayers, contemplation and processions.

Date: In Asian countries with a strong Buddhist presence it is usually festive date (holiday). The official date takes place on the first day of the full moon in May, although according to local customs this day may vary slightly.

This year, 2020 because we are experiencing the Covid-19 pandemic and consequently being confined in our homes, the Buddhist members, members of the CC Para El Diálogo participated in a meditation day via Zoom, for 2 hours, in which 15 people, watched from home.