Lord Buddha's Birthday

Worshippers decorate the main dome of the massive

Buddha Stupa in Boudhanath, Kathmandu

to mark the Buddha Jayanti.

Today in Nepal is the 2,552nd birthday celebration of Buddha. This day commemorates three important events of Gautam Buddha's life- his birth, his enlightenment, and his death, all three of which fall on the same day of the full moon (May 20th) in the Nepali calendar. Lord Buddha is considered the ninth incarnation of Vishnu, preserver in the Hindu Holy trinity of Creator-Preserver-Destroyer. From early in the morning Buddhists flood the major stupas (temples) and religious sites in the country to chant holy mantras of peace and happiness. They will begin the sacred day by reciting "Gyanmala," or hymns songs in large groups.

Buddha was born in Nepal, contrary to the belief that he started his life in India. Actually, he was born in a town called Lumbini in Southern Nepal and found enlightenment under a pipal tree in Northern India. It is of great pride to Nepalis that Lord Buddha was born in their country around 543 BC. About 12% of the population, with high concentrations in the high Himalayan Mountain regions, consider themselves practicing Buddhists.