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Thousands gather in Nepal's Swayambhunath Stupa to mark Buddhism's holiest day and celebrate Vesak, or "Buddha Day." Many feel Buddha's message remains just as relevant today.
Thousands of devotees gathered on Sunday at the Swayambhunath Stupa, an ancient religious complex Kathmandu Valley to mark one of Tibetan Buddhism's holiest days -- the anniversary of Buddha's birth, enlightenment and death.
Celebrations are held on the first full moon in the month of May or Baishakh.
[Sanubhai Bajracharya, Resident of Bhaktapur in Kathmandu Valley]:
"We are here to celebrate this occasion given today is the birthday -- the day of nirvana and the day he achieved Buddhism and also today being the full moon."
A ceremony near the temple was attended by the country's president and prime minister.
[Baburam Bhattarai, Nepalese Prime Minister]:
"World peace and the message of the liberation of humanity, which originated 2,556 years ago, does not end with Nepal and the continent of Asia, rather it has become the common message of all five continents."
Meanwhile, President Ram Baran Yadav said Buddha's message is just as relevant today.
[Ram Baran Yadav, Nepalese President]:
"I feel the message of Lord Buddha for peace and non-violence is much more appropriate in the world today."
Buddha is worshipped and revered as a god across the Asian and Sun Asian continents.
