Bhopal- On the occasion of Buddha Purnima, celebrated on Vaishakh Purnima, the world-famous Sanchi Stupa is once again ready for Buddhist devotees and tourists arriving from across the country and abroad. The district administration and tourism department have finalized all preparations related to the event. Adequate arrangements have been ensured, from security to cleanliness, drinking water, and health facilities.

The historical stupa complex in Sanchi has been specially decorated. Colorful lighting has been installed around the complex, and traditional embellishments have been placed at the welcome gates. Officials had already been instructed earlier to improve basic facilities like parking, drinking water, and toilets.

Foreign followers are also arriving. This time, the administration expects Buddhist monks and devotees from countries like Thailand, Sri Lanka, Japan, Myanmar, and Bhutan to visit. A team of language translators and volunteers has been deployed for the convenience of foreign visitors. Additionally, the tourism information center has been updated to provide visitors with information about Buddhist sites.

The Great Stupa of Sanchi is located in Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh, built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. Originally a hemispherical dome, it symbolizes the teachings and emblems of Buddhism. The purpose of the stupa was to preserve the relics of Buddha and propagate his teachings. Initially, it was just a mound of bricks, which was later adorned with stones and intricately carved toranas (gateways) during the Shunga and Satavahana periods.

The toranas surrounding the Great Stupa of Sanchi are its most distinctive feature. These gateways are not only architecturally exquisite but also depict events from Buddha’s life in symbolic form. The carvings artistically portray episodes such as Buddha’s birth, the Great Renunciation, enlightenment, and Mahaparinirvana. Buddhist symbols like the Ashoka Chakra, elephant, horse, and banyan tree are used to represent Buddha’s presence, as idol worship was not prevalent during that era.

The Sanchi Stupa is not just a religious site but also a living example of India’s ancient cultural heritage and Buddhist architecture. This place has been a major center for meditation and study for Buddhist monks. Along with stupas, the complex also includes viharas (monasteries), temples, and pillars, reflecting the social and religious activities of that time. The architecture of Sanchi testifies to how deeply Buddhism had taken root in India.

Speaking to The Mooknayak, educationist and researcher Dr. Smita Rashi said, "The significance of Buddha Purnima is not just religious but lies in the broader message of human values, compassion, and social justice."

Buddha Purnima, also known as Vaishakh Purnima, is an extremely important day in Buddhism. It marks the day when Bodhisattva Siddhartha was born, attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, and achieved Mahaparinirvana in Kushinagar. Despite these events occurring nearly 2500 years ago, the energy of Buddha’s awakening, his teachings, and messages remain relevant worldwide. The stupas, monolithic pillars, and monasteries in Sanchi, Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh, are not only unparalleled examples of Buddhist art but also hold special significance as they contain the relics of Buddha’s beloved disciples, Sariputta and Mahamoggallana.

She added that Buddha Purnima is celebrated with reverence not only in India but also in countries like Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Indonesia. This year, the festival will be observed on May 12 (Monday). Every year, Sanchi hosts a Buddhist conference and fair, attended by monks and followers from countries such as Bhutan, China, Japan, Cambodia, and Sri Lanka. These events strengthen not only religious but also cultural dialogue. Across various parts of Madhya Pradesh, initiatives like novice monk camps, special classes for children, processions, lectures, and hoisting the Dhamma flag continue to propagate Buddha’s teachings.

The teachings of Gautama Buddha—the Four Noble Truths, the Middle Path, the Eightfold Path, the Ten Precepts, and "Bahujan Hitaya Bahujan Sukhaya" (for the welfare and happiness of the many)—remain capable of guiding human society from darkness to light. Buddhism was the first religion to pave the way for social change based on principles and reason. Many communities in Madhya Pradesh have voluntarily embraced this religion. Buddha’s teachings continue to influence India’s social and cultural life and are especially relevant in today’s global context—particularly when hostility between nations is rising—as they promote peace and understanding. This is why the United Nations also specially observes Buddha Purnima, the birth anniversary of Gautama Buddha.
"Appa Deepo Bhava"—Be your own light.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

In 1989, Sanchi was included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List, highlighting its global significance. It has become a major attraction for tourists, historians, and art lovers worldwide. The museum within the Sanchi Stupa complex houses ancient Buddhist statues, coins, inscriptions, and other historical artifacts that bear witness to India’s glorious past. The serene ambiance and historical grandeur of the place offer a spiritual experience to every visitor.

The district administration has appealed to the public and tourists to maintain peace and cleanliness during the event. Mobile numbers have been made public for contacting the help desk and control room in case of emergencies. On Monday, Buddha Purnima, Sanchi will once again witness the confluence of spiritual peace and historical consciousness.