Vesak is a holy day for millions of Buddhist around the world as it commemorates Gautama Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and ‘parinirvana’ or passing away. The exact day of the festival varies according to the lunar calendars of various cultures but in Theravada Buddhist countries following the Buddhist Calendar it generally falls on a full moon day on the 6th lunar month which is usually in May. The name Vesak itself is a derivative of the name for the lunar month occurring from April to May. Although festivals to mark Vesak had been taking place for several centuries, the decision to celebrate Vesak worldwide as Buddha’s birthday was taken at the first conference of the World Fellowship of Buddhists held in Sri Lanka in 1950. The …

Though Maldives depends on its neighbours for most basic necessities such as food and drinking water, the nation of many islands has an abundance of scenic venues, transcending beaches and bountiful natural formations. In spite of its tiny dimensions, the many atolls are full of activity, customs and culture. To witness the splendour of the chain of islands, a fair amount of jet sitting or boat riding is required as there are no bridges between them. Being a predominantly Islamic nation, the various religious rituals and celebrations pertaining to Islam are practiced widely throughout the country. The father of the religion, Prophet Muhammad’s birthday is a day of celebration, happiness and much festivities in the country. As per the religious calendar, the much awaited day …

The Maldives joins all other Islamic nations in the world to commemorate Eid ul Adha, the Feast of the Sacrifice, in honour of prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael to show obedience to god. It is also a commemoration of the end of the Haj. Fifteen mosques in Male, Hulhumale and Vilingili are designated to conduct special Eid prayers. The Eid Adha is performed any time after sun rise, before the Zuhr time on the 10th day of the Dhul Hijjah according to the Muslim calendar, around the middle of October, and lasts for four days. Goats and sheep are sacrificed as god accepted a sheep in the place of Ishmael. As worshippers are encouraged to turn out in their best for Eid …

The Hung Shing festival held on the 13th day of the second lunar month is held in honour of the historical figure Hung Hei who once upon a time had been a respected astronomer and geographer who worked as the governor of Panyu in Guangdong province during the Tang dynasty. He was later on deified for the service rendered by him towards the merchants’ and fishermen of the province by making use of his extraordinary ability of predicting the weather. It is believed that even after his death, Hung Hei has continued to protect and guard the people of the province against natural disasters just as he had during the time that he was alive. The festival celebrates the birthday of Hung Shing Tai Wong, …

The Lantern Festival which is also widely popular as the Shangyuan Festival in China falls on the fifteenth day of the first month in the Lunar Calendar. This is generally during February or March according to the Gregorian calendar. This festivity has become very significant ever since the Western Han Dynasty which was during 206 BC to AD 25. When this festival began during the Han Dynasty, China was a country which was thriving with Buddhism. It is said that the monks lit lanterns to reminisce the relics from the cremation of Lord Buddha after attaining Nirvana. Following this, beginning from the empire to every household in China lights a lantern on this special day. With time this became a very majestic festival which went …

For the ultimate holiday experience, select a Phuket beach resort such as Anantara Phuket Resort Thailand, an ideally located Phuket resort. When in the region there are various things to do and events to enjoy, especially local festivals. One of the most unique festivals in the island is the Vegetarian Festival. Phuket Seafood Festival where local culinary experts showcase their skills and the Chinese New Year are also popular events. However a prominent event you will get to experience here is the Songkran Festival. Bringing an array of entertainment options is the Phuket Old Town Festival whilst Wat Chalong Fair which coincides with the Chinese New Year brings shopping opportunities, entertainment and more.