This year, on January 25, Buddhists around the world will celebrate Mahayana New Year.
The term Mahayana refers to a variety of Buddhist doctrines and philosophies.
Mahayana Buddhism, one of the two major streams of Buddhism, is mostly practised in north-east Asia.
China, Taiwan, Tibet, Mongolia, Japan, Korea, and China are some of the countries where Mahayana Buddhism is followed. The practice is based on regionally specific customs and traditions.
Learn more about Mahayana New Year and what happens on this day.
What is Mahayana New Year?
Mahayana New Year is when Mahayana Buddhists celebrate the New Year.
Mahayana Buddhists believe that Buddhist practitioners can achieve enlightenment, also known as everlasting nirvana, at any point in their lives. The ultimate goal is for everyone to seize the opportunity to achieve enlightenment.
Every nation and tradition has a different Mahayana New Year. Along with the rest of the world, some Mahayana Buddhists commemorate it on December 31 or January 1.
Some await the first full moon, which often occurs in the middle of January. This year it falls on January 25.
What happens on Mahayana New Year?
Mahayana Buddhists will honour and pray to their gods, especially Buddha, in celebration.
In observance of Buddha, the statues will be cleaned and polished, and religious music will be played. On New Year's Day, Buddhists often visit a neighbouring temple. When they arrive, they burn candles to wish for joy and prosperity in the upcoming year.
Buddhists observe meditation and introspection during the new year. The objective is to figure out how to do better and grow from their mistakes.
Buddhists also think that giving gifts, organising and redesigning the home, and purchasing new things can all be auspicious. In addition, they enjoy feasts that are heavy on dessert and, around midnight, fireworks are usually lit.
