KATHMANDU: The 2568th birth anniversary of Siddhartha Gautam, known globally as Buddha, the harbinger of peace, is being celebrated today. Buddha Jayanti is observed annually on the full moon day of the month of Baisakh in the Lunar calendar.

This important day commemorates Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and death, all of which took place on the full moon day of Baishakh. Buddhists worldwide, including those in Nepal, honor this day with reverence and devotion to Buddha. 

Buddhist monks and religious leaders gather in chaityas, monasteries, and vihars to perform traditional rituals. Special events are held in Lumbini, Buddha's birthplace, as well as in Kapilvastu, Swayambhu, and Boudha.

Siddhartha Gautam was born to King Suddhodhan and Queen Mayadevi in Lumbini, in the present-day Rupandehi district, in 563 BC, which is 2568 years ago. Born as a prince, he became deeply troubled by the sufferings of people and at the age of 29, he left his palace to seek enlightenment through meditation and penance.