Vesak 2026 highlights Buddhism’s enduring commitment to nation in new era

The Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS) Central Committee celebrated Vesak 2026, the Lord Buddha’s birthday in the Buddhist calendar year 2570, with a solemn ceremony at Quan Su Pagoda in Hanoi on May 31. The event reaffirmed Buddhism’s enduring commitment to Vietnam’s development and social harmony, coinciding with the VBS’s 45th founding anniversary (November 7, 1981–2026). Most Venerable Thich Tri Quang, Supreme Patriarch, called on Buddhist monks, nuns, and followers to uphold Vietnamese Buddhist traditions and spread compassion, while preparations began for provincial-level congresses and the 10th National Congress, set to be held in Ho Chi Minh City. A message from Thich Tri Quang, delivered by Thich Thanh Nhieu, Permanent Vice Chairman, urged the Buddhist community to serve society with mindfulness and foster national solidarity. The ceremony included a procession of the Buddha relic through central Hanoi on May 30, reflecting the event’s spiritual significance. In Hue, large-scale Vesak celebrations drew thousands of participants over May 30–31, featuring traditional rituals like Buddha bathing and processions. These events highlighted the city’s rich Buddhist heritage and included prayers for national prosperity and peace. Nguyen Phi Long, Vice President of the Vietnam Fatherland Front, extended Vesak greetings and praised Buddhism’s contributions to Vietnam’s socio-economic progress and national defense. He emphasized the VBS’s role in promoting patriotism and international Buddhist exchanges, reinforcing Vietnam’s image as a peace-loving nation with a strong cultural heritage. Long expressed confidence in the VBS’s continued efforts under its motto ‘Dharma – Nation – Socialism,’ encouraging followers to integrate religious and secular life for national development.