Visakha Puja or Visakha Bucha or Vesak is regarded as the holiest of Buddhist festivals, marking the birth, enlightenment and death of Lord Buddha, founder of Buddhism. Vesak day falls on the 15th day of the waxing moon in the 6th lunar month, which is usually May in the Gregorian calendar. A candle procession is taken out in evening on the occassion. Those who have witnessed the glittering sight are never able to forget it.

The Celebrations
Religious flags are hoisted all over the country. People visit temples early in the day for offering food and sweets to the monks. People listen attentively to the preaching of the religious persons and vow to follow them.

A lovely candle or torchlight procession is taken out at dusk and the main shrine is circumambulated three times. Persons participitating in the luminous procession carry flowers and glowing incense sticks to pay silent respect to Buddha, who showed right path to humanity. Many practise meditation following the preachings of Lord Buddha. Activities like marathon are also undertaken. Health food cooking is demonstrated in many places.