Vaishakha Purnima (Buddha Purnima)
वैशाख पूर्णिमा (बुद्ध पूर्णिमा)
Vaishakha Purnima commemorates Gautama Buddha's birth, enlightenment (Nirvana), and Mahaparinirvana, and marks Lord Kurma's incarnation in the Dashavatara lineage.
May 1, 2026
Friday
08:50 AM to 12:40 PM
Auspicious forenoon window
07:18 PM
Chandra Arghya window
April 30, 2026 at 07:15 PM
until May 01, 2026 at 05:32 PM
नमो बुद्धाय शुद्धाय धर्मचक्रप्रवर्तकाय। ॐ कूर्माय नमः॥
Namo buddhāya śuddhāya dharmacakrapravartakāya | Oṁ kūrmāya namaḥ ||
Salutations to the enlightened and pure one, the turner of the wheel of Dharma. Salutations to Lord Kurma, the tortoise avatar who upholds creation.
Spiritual & Scriptural Significance
Regarded as one of the holiest full moons, Vaishakha Purnima rewards Dana (charity), water pots (Kalash), umbrellas, and sandals donated to relieve travelers and seekers from the summer heat.
Pauranic Vrat Katha & History
The Vishnu Purana explains that during Vaishakha, waters everywhere carry the sanctity of Gangajal. Furthermore, on this day in Bodh Gaya, Siddhartha Gautama pierced through all illusions and attained supreme Buddhahood under the Bodhi tree, showing humanity the path of compassion and mindfulness.
Step-by-Step Purnima Vrat & Puja Vidhi
- 1Take an early morning bath and offer water to the Sun God (Surya Arghya).
- 2Light incense and offer white lotus flowers, kheer, and fruits to Lord Vishnu and Lord Buddha.
- 3Distribute cold water, earthen pots (Ghada), hand fans, and sweet sherbet to thirsty seekers.
- 4Conduct Satyanarayan Vrat Katha with family members.
- 5Meditate on breath awareness and mindfulness under the radiant full Moon.
Frequently Asked Questions: Vaishakha Purnima (Buddha Purnima)
What is the three-fold significance of Buddha Purnima?
Gautama Buddha was born, achieved supreme enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, and attained Mahaparinirvana on the very same full moon day of Vaishakha.
What specific items are traditional to donate on Vaishakha Purnima?
Earthen water pots (Surahi/Matka), handheld fans, cotton umbrellas, footwear, and cool beverages are traditionally given to soothe individuals in the peak summer heat.