India Fairs Festivals : May
FRAGRANT
ORCHARDS
MAY : VAISHAKH - JYESHTHA
AKSHAYA TRITIYA : An
Auspicious Day
It is well known that Indians believe passionately in the theory of muhurts or
auspicious times to perform sacraments, to make major purchases or to begin new
ventures. Inspite of modern technology and changing lifeviews, this dedication
to auspicious time is a prominent feature of Indian life. Akshaya Tritiya, the
third day of the bright half of Vaishakh, is considered one of the four most
sacred days of the vear.
BUDDHA PURNIMA : Festival Of Peace
[Opposite page] The Bodhi tree in Bodhgaya has stood for centuries as a reminder
of the Buddha's attainment of enlightenment. Gaya is a sacred place of pilgrimage
for Buddhists. Each year, the tree is venerated and the viharas nearby resound
to the chants of Buddhist monks. The great celebration of the month of Vaishakh
falls on the full moon day on which Gautama,
the Buddha, was born.
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