Ashadha Purnima Celebrated at Sarnath

Context:

Ashadha Purnima was commemorated at Sarnath by the International Buddhist Confederation to mark DhammachakraPravartana Divas, celebrating Lord Buddha’s first sermon, reaffirming India’s central role in global Buddhist heritage.

Significance of Ashadha Purnima &DhammachakraPravartana Divas:

Ashadha Purnima marks Lord Buddha’s first sermon at Sarnath in Deer Park (Rishipattana) to the PanchavargiyaBhikshus (five ascetics), initiating the Wheel of Dharma (DhammachakraPravartana).
It also marks the foundation of the Buddhist Sangha, making it a vital event in Buddhist history.

Role of International Buddhist Confederation (IBC):

IBC is a body under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, established to promote Buddhist heritage and global Buddhist unity.
It organizes events like Global Buddhist Summit and commemorates key Buddhist festivals such as Vesak and Ashadha Purnima.

Cultural and Diplomatic Importance of Sarnath:

Sarnath is one of the four major Buddhist pilgrimage sites (others being Lumbini, Bodh Gaya, and Kushinagar).
The event also reflects India’s soft power diplomacy, especially in strengthening ties with Buddhist-majority countries like Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Thailand, and Myanmar.

VarshaVassa (Monastic Retreat):

Begins on Ashadha Purnima; monks stay in one location for three months of the monsoon, engaging in intensive spiritual practices, a tradition dating back to Buddha’s time.

Use of Ashadha Purnima by Government for Cultural Integration:

Celebrations reflect India’s civilizational continuity, cultural diplomacy, and promotion of interfaith harmony through Buddhism.

Ashadha Purnima (DhammachakraPravartana Divas):

Occasion & Significance:Celebrated on the full moon day of Ashadha month, it marks Lord Buddha’s first sermon at Deer Park (RishipattanaMrigadaya), Sarnath, to his five ascetic disciples (Pancavargiya).
Names in Different Traditions:Known as Guru Purnima in Hinduism and Buddhism, EsalaPoya in Sri Lanka, and AsanhaBucha in Thailand—commonly associated with spiritual instruction and guru reverence.
Spiritual Importance:Commemorates the establishment of the Sangha (Buddhist monastic community) and the turning of the Wheel of Dharma (DhammachakraPravartana).
Monastic Practice:Marks the start of VarshaVassa—the Buddhist monastic rains retreat (July to October), during which monks/nuns stay in one location, focus on meditation, study, and spiritual growth.
Cultural-Religious Unity:Celebrated jointly by Buddhists and Hindus as a day of gratitude toward teachers and spiritual guides (gurus).