Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Borobudur Temple once again captured the world’s attention as the focal point of this year’s Waisak celebration, known internationally as Vesak, marking 2569 Buddhist Era (BE).
The annual event, which falls on Monday, May 12, brought together thousands of Buddhist devotees and visitors from across the globe to commemorate one of Buddhism’s holiest days.
Vesak, honors the three most significant events in the life of Siddhartha Gautama the Buddha: his birth, enlightenment, and passing into Parinibbana. These three sacred milestones, collectively known as Trisuci Waisak, form the foundation of Buddhist teachings on the path to liberation from suffering.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Borobudur Temple in Central Java has long served as the spiritual and ceremonial center for Indonesia’s national Vesak celebration. Its towering stone stupas and serene surroundings provide a fitting backdrop for a festival that blends religious devotion with cultural tradition.
The Vesak 2025 celebration carried the theme: “Enhancing Self-Control and Wisdom to Realize World Peace.” Organizers and religious leaders emphasized the relevance of inner harmony as a foundation for global unity, urging reflection and compassion amid today’s challenges.
This year’s festivities began with the traditional Vesak Kirab, a pilgrimage procession from Mendut Temple to Borobudur, followed by the Pradaksina ritual, three ceremonial circumambulations of the temple.
Lantern Releasing Traditions
Among the most anticipated moments of the celebration were the the sacred second of Vesak and the symbolic release of lanterns into the night sky.
As the clock neared 11:55:29 p.m. local time, thousands gathered in silent reflection during the sacred second of Vesak before releasing lanterns symbolizing hopes and prayers into the sky.
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Live Stream
The ceremony was streamed live on the official YouTube channel of DPP WALUBI, allowing viewers worldwide to witness the spiritual spectacle in real time.
The live broadcast of the main rituals began at 1:00 p.m. WIB, offering a rare digital window into the serene yet powerful atmosphere of the ceremony. Viewers witnessed prayer rituals, communal meditation, and the dramatic lantern release that concluded the night with a luminous display of peace and devotion.
More than just a religious event, Vesak at Borobudur showcases the spiritual depth and cultural richness of Indonesia, reaffirming the temple’s role as a beacon of Buddhist heritage and global harmony.
(Raidi/Agung)
