Delicacies to Celebrate Buddha Purnima

India is a land of many festivals. Among several festivals in India, Buddha Purnima is one of the main festivals during the Vaishakha month, which marks the birth anniversary of Siddhartha Gautama, who later became Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism.

The Significance

Buddha Purnima, also known as Buddha Jayanti is an auspicious day celebrated in India that falls on the full moon day. The lunar month corresponds to the month of April-May, on the full moon day of Vaishakha. Buddha, in India is considered as the eight incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is conceived that Buddha achieved enlightenment and nirvana (salvation) on the same day.

The most important preachings of Lord Buddha is Charity, and this is the very reason why offering gifts and food to the needy is a part of all Buddhist occasions. People on this special day offer food and donate money to the poor, deprived and elderly.

Buddha Purnima is somewhat different from other festivals, where the celebration revolves around food. However, Buddha Purnima is more about fasting and less about feasting. Yet, for the Buddha Jayanti, devotees indulge in various kinds of delicacies, kheer is one of the most widely prepared delicacies of the day. Also, the strong and pungent spices are avoided in the preparation, such as ingredients like onion and garlic.

So, here are a few traditional delicacies prepared during this auspicious day in all its fervour and the true spirit of peace.

• Kheer – Also known as meetha bhaat is a traditional delicacy prepared by cooking rice in milk with the addition of fragrant ingredients like saffron, cardamom, jaggery, raisins, nuts and dried fruits.
• Pumpkin Soup – This authentic delicacy is prepared with pumpkin / squash, along with sweet potato and coconut milk and a melange of herbs. This indulgent recipe is delicious and super nutritious.
• Mango Okayu – Another interesting recipe usually prepared during this festival is Mango Okayu. This simple and easy to make recipe is made with mango and water, which helps in regaining energy.
• Green Bean Namul – Green Bean Namul is an exquisite variety of exotic dishes, made from fresh green beans, sesame seed oil and cherry tomatoes. This recipe is actually that people prefer eating after their fast.
• Vegetable Paste – This paste is prepared with cashews, almonds, parsley leaves, curry leaves, sunflower oil, lemongrass and red chillies. The ingredients are blended in a processor and turned into a fine paste which in turn is fried and served hot.

Footnote:

The Buddha Purnima festival is all about praying with the purest of feelings, and adopting Buddhism that stands for- peace, non-violence and harmony.
Wishing everyone a happy Buddha Purnima!