New Delhi, May 7: On the occasion of Buddha Purnima 2020 on Thursday, several leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor extended greetings to people of the nation. BJP President JP Nadda, Kiran Bedi were among several leaders who took to Twitter to wish people of the nation and the followers of Lord Buddha around the world on Buddha Jayanti.

Remembering Lord Buddha, the Prime Minister said the message and resolve to reduce problems of every life has guided the culture of India. He added saying that Lord Buddha contributed to the enrichment of Indian civilization and tradition. "I extend my wishes to all on the occasion of Buddha Purnima. Today, situation is such that I can't participate in Buddha Purnima programs physically. It would have been my pleasure to be with all in the celebrations, but circumstances prevailing today do not permit us", PM Modi said.

Here's PM Modi's Address on Buddha Purnima:

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu Wednesday greeted people on the eve of Buddha Purnima, saying everybody needs to follow the principles of universal love, tolerance and compassion in these testing times. "We must also show our gratitude to the frontline warriors, who are risking their lives to save others in this battle against coronavirus," he said. Naidu said Lord Buddha inspired humanity to follow the path of truth, righteousness and honesty. Buddha Purnima 2020: Interesting Facts And Teachings of Lord Buddha to Share on Buddha Jayanti.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh remembered Lord Buddha and his sacrifice and said he has given this nation the message of truth, non-violence, kindness, compassion and human welfare from generation to generation.

Here's the tweet:

The Congress party extended wishes to people of the nation on Twitter. "Warm greetings to everyone on the joyous occasion of Buddha Purnima. His teachings of kindness, compassion and tolerance are more relevant now than ever", the tweet read. 

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor took to Twitter to extend greetings to people of the nation on the occasion of Buddha Purnima. He posted a picture of himself along with a picture of Lord Buddha in the background.

Puducherry Lt Governor Kiran Bedi too greeted people of the nation on the occasion of Buddha Purnima. Taking to Twitter, Bedi said the key message of Buddha was that no comfort or discomfort is permanent, Do not take anything for granted.

Here's the tweet:

BJP President JP Nadda extended his heartfelt greetings to people the nation on the holy festival of Buddha Purnima. Nadda said the teachings of Lord Buddha, symbol of religion and peace, such as 'Chatwari Aryasatyani' and 'Ashtanga Marg' are more important in understanding and solving the problems of today's society.

The festival of Buddha Purnima is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Siddhartha Gautama , who later became Gautam Buddha. In short, Buddha Purnima marks the birth anniversary of Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. The date for varies from year to year in the Western Gregorian calendar, but usually falls in April or May. In leap years it may be celebrated in June. This year, Buddha Purnima will be celebrated on May 7.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 07, 2020 10:09 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).