On various dates this month Buddhist sects celebrate the birth of the Nepali prince Siddhartha Guatama who renounced his kingdom and became Buddha, the Enlightened One. While Buddhism is a distinct and separate religion from Hinduism, Buddha is honored amongst some northern Hindu sects as an avatar of  Lord Vishnu.

Siddhartha Guatama was born and raised as a Hindu and many of his concepts on the law of karma, samsara (reincarnation), dharma, and compassion for all  beings are found in Vedic scriptures. Today in Buddha’s birthplace of Nepal, both Hinduism and Buddhism are not considered separate traditions but fused together in daily spiritual practice.

Buddhists have also played  an active role in facilitating communal harmony and Hindu-Muslim unity.

Learn more:
Buddha’s teachings: 4 noble truths and 8 fold path
Exploring Hindu-Buddhist connections
Buddha and Hindu avatars