Buddhists maintain social distancing, observe Buddha Poornima virtually in India

The pomp surrounding the festivity remained missing this year.

Vesak (Buddha Purnima, Buddha Jayanti) is a Buddhist festival that marks Gautama Buddha's birth, enlightenment and death. It falls on the day of the Full Moon around this time every year.

The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in association with the Bodhgaya Temple Management Committee observed the special occasion this year virtually.

This comes at a time when China is positioning itself as the champion of Buddhism when in reality it is anything but that, given its track record in Tibet and the widespread marginalisation of the Buddhist community, reported ANI news agency.

"Buddhists congregate virtually as COVID-19 dampens festive spirit of Buddha Poornima," tweeted IBC.

Meanwhile, Dr Dhammapiya, Secretary-General, IBC, was quoted as saying by ANI: "Unlike previous years, we are maintaining social distance. There may be physical distance but we are connected spiritually, mentally, emotionally and with all positive energy."

Drikung Kyabgon Chetsang, the supreme head of the Drikung Kagyu order of Tibetan Buddhism, told the news agency: "I request Buddha, the Arahadas, the Bodhisattvas, to bless those who died during the last three months of COVID-19 pandemic, also those who have been hospitalised, and suffering for those in the families."

He said given the nature of the disease it is crucial to maintain safe distance.

"Even at our homes, we should maintain a distance of one to two metres," he added.  

Ani Choying Drolma, a Nepalese Buddhist nun and musician, stated in her speech as quoted by ANI: "It's really sad so many people around the world losing their precious lives. So, many people were infected are afraid of losing lives."  

The COVID-19 virus is believed to have originated from China.

It has now spread across the globe.