Vesak Day

Vesak Day was officially made a public holiday in Singapore after the 2nd World War, to commemorate the birth, enlightenment and attainment of Nirvana of Siddhartha Gautama Shakyamuni, Buddha.

Majority of Buddhists in Singapore are mainly Chinese Singaporeans. Devotees prostrate themselves at every third step, believing that the ritual will help purify their minds as well as to repent.

On this day, general rituals are carried out by the chanting of mantras, having vegetarian meals, and ending off with a candlelight procession through the streets.