The story of Lord Buddha, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, holds significant importance in Hinduism. This avatar was meant to inspire the world to follow the path of non-violence, compassion, and righteousness. The story of Lord Buddha is as follows:

Lord Buddha was born in 563 BCE in Lumbini, Nepal. His father’s name was Shuddhodana, and his mother’s name was Mahamaya. He was born into the Shakya clan, hence he is also known as Shakyamuni. His real name was Siddhartha.

Siddhartha was raised in royal luxury. King Shuddhodana made every effort to keep him away from the sorrows of the world. He married a princess named Yashodhara, and they had a son named Rahul.

One day, during a city tour, Siddhartha saw four sights: an old man, a sick man, a dead man, and an ascetic. These scenes deeply moved Siddhartha and raised profound questions in his mind. He decided to find out the cause of suffering in the world and the solution to it.

At the age of twenty-nine, Siddhartha left the palace, his wife, and his son to follow the path of meditation and asceticism. He learned from various teachers and practiced severe austerities but found no satisfaction. Finally, in Bodh Gaya, under a peepal tree, he attained enlightenment through deep meditation and became Gautama Buddha.

After attaining enlightenment, Buddha first preached to his five former companions in Sarnath. This sermon is known as the 'Turning of the Wheel of Dharma.' He taught the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. The Four Noble Truths are:

1. There is suffering in the world.
2. The cause of suffering is desire.
3. The cessation of suffering is possible.
4. The path to the cessation of suffering is the Eightfold Path.

The Eightfold Path includes right view, right intention, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration.

Among the many important teachings of Lord Buddha, five major teachings are crucial for leading a righteous life:

1. Non-violence (Ahimsa): Non-violence means not causing harm to any living being physically, mentally, or verbally. Lord Buddha taught his followers to cultivate kindness and compassion towards all creatures. This teaching helps develop peace and harmony in one's conduct and thoughts.

2. Truth (Satya): Upholding truth and always speaking the truth is very important. Lord Buddha taught that one should always follow the path of truth, regardless of the circumstances. Lies not only harm others but also damage our own soul. Integrity leads to lasting peace and contentment.

3. Non-stealing (Asteya): Asteya means not attempting to take what does not belong to us. One should stay away from theft and deceit. Lord Buddha taught that we should live honestly and avoid any unethical means. Following this teaching fosters trust and a sense of security in society.

4. Celibacy (Brahmacharya): Brahmacharya means controlling one's senses and desires. Lord Buddha taught that desires and passions should be managed in a balanced way. This teaching is essential for mental and physical health and brings stability and contentment in life.

5. Non-possessiveness (Aparigraha): Aparigraha means not accumulating unnecessary possessions and wealth. Lord Buddha taught that we should gather only what is necessary for our lives. Excessive material accumulation and desires cause mental unrest. Simplicity and contentment bring happiness and peace in life.

Lord Buddha’s teachings inspire us to follow truth, non-violence, honesty, balance, and contentment in life. Adhering to these teachings improves not only our personal lives but also fosters peace and goodwill in society.

For forty-five years, Lord Buddha traveled and preached the Dharma across different parts of India. His disciples and followers grew in number. Buddha advocated the message of non-violence, compassion, and friendship. His teachings awakened a new consciousness and religious awareness in society.