«Do you want to change the world? Start with yourself» — this is the meaning of Vesak Day. This holiday falls on the May full moon and is the holiest day for millions of Buddhists around the world.
It is believed that it was on the day of Vesak 2.5 thousand years ago, in 623 BC, that the Buddha was born. On the same day, the Buddha achieved enlightenment, and on the same day he left the world at the age of 80.
Buddha's Statement — « In order to change the world, it is necessary to change human nature», — has become the main concept of the holiday. This statement — is the deep essence of how the life of our planet and its inhabitants can be improved.
In 1999, a UN General Assembly resolution was adopted on «international recognition of Vesak» Day. It was supported by many Asian Buddhist countries, as well as other countries, including Russia and the United States. And in accordance with UN General Assembly resolution 54/115 of February 8, 2000, this day is celebrated annually by the UN in recognition of the contribution that Buddhism –, one of the oldest religions in the world –, has made for two and a half millennia and continues to make today in the spiritual development of humanity.
The Buddha's teachings and his call for compassion, peace and goodwill have captivated millions of people around the world, and they follow the Buddha's teachings and celebrate his birth, achievement of enlightenment and departure from this world on the day of Vesak.
This day is celebrated annually at United Nations Headquarters and other offices in consultation with relevant UN offices and permanent missions.
«I invite everyone who professes Buddhism and other religions, in connection with the celebration of Vesak Day, to think about how we can change our actions in order to pave the way for more progressive development in the future», — addressed the 8th Secretary General in his message UN Ban Ki-moon to the inhabitants of the planet.