Dhaka: Buddha Purnima, the biggest religious festival of the Buddhist community, will be celebrated across the country on Sunday.

Buddha Purnima marks Gautama Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and death. On this day in 563 BC, Buddha was born as Siddhartha Gautama in Kopilabostu at the foothill of the Himalayas, reports the UNB.

He attained supreme enlightenment at the age of 35 and finally departed into ‘nirvana’ at the age of 80 in 483 BC.

Meanwhile, President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh have issued separate messages greeting the Buddhist community on the occasion.

In his message, the President said, ‘Gautama Buddha preached for parity and harmony throughout his life to build a peaceful world.’

He also expressed his hope that the Buddhist community will continue their efforts for the country’s development.

In her message, the Prime Minister hoped that the Buddha community will play an effective role in building a peaceful Bangladesh, being imbued with Gautama Buddha’s message for equality, friendship and his ideals.