The day is a public holiday in the country.

Although Buddhists regard every full moon as sacred, the full moon of Bangla month Baisakh (April - May) has three-fold significance for them because on this day, Buddha was born, attained enlightenment (nirvana) and passed into eternity after completing his Sahasra Chandra Darshana or 1000 full moon days (80th year).

Gautam Buddha was born in 563 BC at Lumbini near the city of Kapilavastu in Nepal, entered the realm of nirvana at the age of 35 in Buddha Gaya in the Indian state of Bihar and departed from this world at the age of 80 (483 BC).

President Iajuddin Ahmed will plant sapling of a banyan tree at Merul Badda International Bouddha Bihar on the eve of the day. Buddha attained his nirvana under such a tree, a press release said.

Former prime ministers Awami League chief Sheikh Hasina and BNP chief Khaleda Zia both gave separate messages on the occasion.

Buddha Purnima will be celebrated at all monasteries across the country through daylong programmes. Special prayers will also be offered seeking peace, progress and prosperity of the country.

Separate press releases of Bangladesh Buddhist Federation and Bangladesh Bouddha Kristi Prochar Sangha said they will organise discussion meetings, colourful processions and other religious programmes.

Newspapers will publish articles while radio and TV channels will air special programmes highlighting the significance of the day.