One of the Major Buddhist Holidays—the Day of the First Turning of the Wheel of Teaching—Was Celebrated in Kalmykia

The Day of the First Turning of the Wheel of Teaching — is one of the most significant holidays for Buddhists. It commemorates the event that marked the beginning of the spread of the Buddhist Teaching.

More than 2500 years ago, after attaining Enlightenment, Buddha Shakyamuni delivered his first sermon — to five disciples in Sarnath. In it, he set out the foundations of his vision of the path to liberation from suffering: the Teaching on the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. This moment is known as the “first turning of the Wheel of Teaching.”

The name itself carries profound meaning. The wheel — is a symbol of movement, dissemination, and continuous flow. Turning the wheel means that the Teaching was set in motion: it ceased to be the hidden knowledge of one person and became available to others, guiding them toward wisdom and compassion. From that day onward, the Dharma began its long journey across centuries and countries, passed from teacher to disciple, from heart to heart.

For a Buddhist, this day — is more than a commemorative date. It is a reminder of the value of the Teaching itself and of how important it is not only to know it but also to apply it in life. On this day, believers are especially mindful of their actions: they participate in prayer services, recite sacred texts, take vows, and perform good deeds so that the merit they accumulate may benefit all sentient beings.

In Buddhist temples, including the Central Khurul, this day is celebrated with solemnity. Prayer services are held and rituals are performed, connecting people today with the ancient tradition. In this way, the holiday becomes not only a remembrance of the past but also a living action: it helps people feel that the Dharma continues to live, warming and guiding those who turn to it.