“Madhu Purnima” is one of the holy festivals observed on the full moon day of the month of Bhadrapada, in memory of the service and support offered to Gautama Buddha by the animals of the Parileya forest in India.
“Madhu Purnima” conveys the message of the greatness of generosity. During His tenth Vassavasa (the monsoon retreat or annual rains retreat), when the Buddha was dwelling in seclusion in the Parileya forest, an elephant and a monkey collected alms and fruits for him. They also protected him from wild animals.
One day, the monkey brought a honeycomb, which the Buddha accepted. Overjoyed by the Buddha’s acceptance of his gift, the monkey jumped from one tree to another in delight, but accidentally fell and died. That day was the full moon of the month of Bhadrapada. In commemoration of the monkey’s offering, this day came to be known as “Madhu Purnima” or “Honey Full Moon Day.” A Sanghadana was organised by Bodhgaya Temple Management Committee to commemorate this special full moon day where monks from various buddhist monasteries in Bodhgaya participated.