Buddha Purnima to be observed on 17 May
Date: 13 May 2011
Message of High Commissioner on the Occasion of Buddha Purnima
The teachings of the Lord Buddha are solely to liberate human beings from the misery and sufferings of life. Rich and poor alike were attracted by the simplicity of Buddha’s teaching and his emphasis on complete equality of all. ‘Buddha Purnima’ is the occasion which inspires all to follow the true teachings of Lord Buddha.
On the auspicious occasion of ‘Buddha Purnima’, my wife and I convey our heartfelt felicitation and warm greetings to our nationals living in Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. ‘Buddha Purnima’ is the most sacred festivals celebrated by Buddhist worldwide to commemorate the birth of Lord Buddha. This is a festival which transcends language, culture and even religious beliefs.
Whilst all around the world and throughout Australia, New Zealand and Fiji, people will be celebrating in their own way during ‘Buddha Purnima’, our thoughts will always go out to those who cannot find peace in their homes, or those who are far away from their loved ones. On this occasion, I would also like to call upon all, whatever their culture or religion, to try to do something to help make the world a better and more peaceful place.
I wish you all a very happy and peaceful ‘Buddha Pumima’
Lieutenant General Masud Uddin Chowdhury