Parinirvana Day - Thursday, February 15

Parinirvana Day, also known as Nirvana Day, is a sacred occasion in the Buddhist tradition commemorating the Buddha's attainment of Parinirvana, marking the culmination of his journey towards enlightenment with the passing of his physical form. This significant day is observed primarily by the Mahāyāna branch of Buddhism, alongside Theravāda and Vajrayāna.

During Parinirvana Day, adherents engage in various rituals and practices to honor the Buddha's final moments. This includes the recitation of passages recounting the Buddha's last days, deep meditation sessions, visits to Buddhist temples for offerings and prayers, and introspective contemplation on the transient nature of life and the inevitability of death for oneself and loved ones.

In Buddhist philosophy, Nirvana represents the ultimate state of liberation from desires and suffering, transcending the cycle of rebirth. Parinirvana specifically signifies the state of Nirvana-after-death, attained by those who have achieved enlightenment during their lifetime. It symbolizes the complete release from Saṃsāra, the endless cycle of birth, death, and reincarnation, signifying the ultimate liberation and cessation of worldly existence.