What Gautam Buddha Taught...

Let tolerance and openness be our mantras as the country celebrates Buddha Purnima ~


My unwell and frail mother is breaking her disciplined routine of the past few months on the occasion of Buddha Purnima today. It is the full moon day that marks Gautam Buddha's birth anniversary and to ritualistic people like my mother, this is one of the most auspicious full moons. People will perform Satyanarayan Pujas at their homes and workplaces. Many will throng the temples from the early morning. They will have food only after offering the pujas. 

Religious fanatics like my mother search for excuses. They love to fast and follow rituals. And they do this blindly. I wonder how many of them have read about Buddha's philosophies or have tried to adapt their lives to Buddha's teachings! Comprehending Gautam Buddha's philosophies and teachings releases one from all fanaticisms. Buddha takes us to newer heights of enlightenment where rites, rituals and blindnesses have no place whatsoever. I wish all those who are fasting and offering pujas eagerly with flowers and sweets today read and practice at least one teaching of Buddha throughout this day of his birth. I wish we could adopt Gautam Buddha's tolerance and compassion in our lives more fervently than how we are offering pujas today.