Lotus day - fitting on Buddha's birthday

Today, and April 8th annually, is Lotus Day in Japan. This is different to the "birthday flowers" I regularly share. Lotus Day is more about symbolism on "Hana-matsuri" which is also celebrated annually on April 8th for Buddha's birthday.

This anniversary was created by Toei Co. Ltd, the studio behind the animated film "Tezuka Osamu's Buddha: The Great Departure". Which is connected Osamu Tezuka's acclaimed manga "Buddha", a sweeping 14 volume retelling of Siddhartha Gautama's life. With over 20 million copies sold and international recognition, the story continues to resonate across cultures. 

The creators designated this day as one to “share happiness and give thanks,” inspired by the lotus that appears throughout Buddhist art and storytelling.