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.

Happy Lhosar!

February 11, 2008

I have been in Kathmandu for one month now, although it seems like I’ve always been here. I have adjusted well to the polluted chaos. I am inspired every day by the spirit of the people here. The smiles on their faces betray the fact that we face power, water, and petrol shortages daily. Living among the local people and exploring their culture, I feel that we are in the right place. Our mission to facilitate a piece of the women’s movement will only serve to guide the country into a more stable place-one that hopefully includes electricity.
Today was the Tibetan Buddhist New Year, Lhosar. To celebrate, Erin and I headed to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the more famous landmarks in Kathmandu. The people were out in full force, including Sherpas, women, children, and tourists alike. Erin and I took some time to reflect and enjoy the sunshine while sitting on the Stupa.