On this sacred occasion of Maghi Purnima, 12 February 2025, we extend our heartfelt greetings to our beloved brothers and sisters across the globe who follow the profound path of the Buddha Dharma.
According to the traditional lunar calendar, the Purnima Tithi will begin on 11 February 2025 at 6:58 PM and end on 12 February 2025 at 7:25 PM. May this auspicious time fill your hearts with peace, your homes with light, and your path with the eternal wisdom of the Blessed One.
Maghi Purnima holds deep spiritual significance in the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. It is believed that on this very day, the Tathagata — the Fully Enlightened One — announced His Parinirvana. At the moment of this declaration, it is said that the Earth trembled in a great quake, as if in acknowledgement of the immense cosmic transformation that was to come. When the monks were struck with sorrow upon hearing this, the Buddha compassionately reminded them that death is inevitable, and urged them to pursue the Dharma with steadfast resolve and clarity of purpose, so that they may transcend the cycle of birth, old age, disease, and death, and realise liberation from all suffering.
The teachings from this day remain a timeless beacon for all — encouraging self-discipline, mindfulness, spiritual awakening, and inner strength. Maghi Purnima reminds us that true freedom comes from spiritual fulfilment, and when one masters the inner path, even life and death become choices, not compulsions.
On this holy day, Buddhists around the world engage in noble observances — from offering alms to the Sangha, lighting lamps, undertaking vows of morality (Śīla), to gathering in Dharma assemblies and meditating upon impermanence (Anicca). These acts not only honour the Buddha but also nourish the seeds of compassion and wisdom within each devotee.
In Bangladesh, particularly in the Buddhist regions of Chattogram, vibrant festivals and fairs are held — such as the Burha Gosai Mela of Thegarpuni, Parinirvana Mela of Binajuri (Raozan), Buddha Mela of Lattichhari, and Shakyamuni Mela of Abdullahpur (Hathazari). These gatherings are not only cultural celebrations but also spiritual rejuvenation for the community.
It is also a sacred day of Magh Snan (ritual bathing), when pilgrims across India bathe in holy rivers from Paush Purnima to Maghi Purnima, culminating in the divine immersion at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati in Prayag Raj. It is said that bathing in these sacred waters on Maghi Purnima washes away all sins and grants peace, prosperity, and moksha (liberation).
This year, Maghi Purnima also coincides with the royal bath of the Maha Kumbh Mela, adding even greater celestial significance to the day. According to belief, when Pushya Nakshatra aligns with this full moon, the blessings are multiplied manifold.
Let us all, regardless of our paths, take a moment on this holy day to reflect deeply upon the truths of impermanence, compassion, and unity. May the message of the Buddha — of peace, tolerance, and inner awakening — guide humanity towards a better tomorrow.
On behalf of the Office of Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar, we bow with respect to the teachings of the Buddha and send our blessings of love and solidarity to the global Buddhist community.
May your observances be fruitful, your hearts be light, and your lives be filled with boundless merit, joy, and insight.
Happy Maghi Purnima 2025
— With Universal Peace and Loving-Kindness
Office of Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar