Saka Dawa Festival

Saka Dawa Festival is on the 15th day of the 4th Tibetan month. According to Tibetan Buddhism tradition, April in Tibetan calendar is a month with frequent Buddhist activities. And it is believed to be the day when Sakyamuni was born. The Tibetans from place to place will hold various solemn religious commemorative activities. Sutras are recited at every monastery and 'Cham' dances are performed. Pilgrims and secular people turn their prayer wheels on the streets of Lhasa.

 

During the festival, people keep from killing animals, refrain from eating meat and liberate animals. Some Tibetans also give money to save the lives of animals. For instance, giving a butcher money to save the life of a sheep. Then this sheep is taken to a herdsman who is paid regularly by the 'sponsor' to take care of the animal. Hence, Saka Dawa is also known as the Festival for releasing living things. People offer prayers and give alms to poor. It is said that good deeds in the month of this festival deserve 300 fold in return.