Uttar Pradesh marks Buddha Purnima with global celebrations and spiritual invitation
The celebrations were led by the Department of Tourism and Culture, Government of Uttar Pradesh, with Shri Mukesh Kumar Meshram (IAS), Director General and Principal Secretary, emphasising the state's deep-rooted spiritual identity. 'Uttar Pradesh is a spiritual odyssey where the Buddha's teachings come alive. We are committed to preserving historic Buddhist sites and creating a welcoming experience for global travellers,' he said.
Highlights of the celebration included the unveiling of Dhih Research Journal (Buddharpan) at Sarnath in collaboration with the Central University of Tibetan Studies. The event, filled with the chanting of Pali and Tibetan mantras, was a symbolic blend of scholarship and spirituality. In Shravasti and Sankisa, devotional events such as Dhamma Yatra, Deepdaan ceremonies, and food donations brought communities together in reverence and reflection.
Uttar Pradesh Tourism also extended its outreach by participating in national and international events. At Bodh Gaya's Trividh Purnima and the Mahabodhi Society event in Bengaluru, the state highlighted its Buddhist offerings. Meanwhile, the celebration of UN Vesak Day in Vietnam allowed Uttar Pradesh to showcase its spiritual destinations to a global audience, fostering international cultural collaboration.
Easily accessible via international airports in Delhi and Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh invites travellers to explore the Buddhist Circuit — home to revered sites like Sarnath, Shravasti, Sankisa, and Kushinagar. These destinations offer visitors a chance to meditate in ancient monasteries, walk the paths once tread by the Buddha, and connect with timeless teachings in a setting of peace and historical depth.
With enhanced infrastructure, world-class hospitality, and a strong focus on safety, Uttar Pradesh is positioning itself as a premier global destination for spiritual and cultural exploration.
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