Buddha, originally known as Siddhartha Gautama, was born into a royal family in ancient India around the 5th century BCE. He lived a sheltered life until he encountered the realities of suffering, old age, and death. This profound experience compelled him to renounce his privileged life in pursuit of enlightenment. He dedicated years to meditation and ascetic practices but found them insufficient for attaining true understanding. After a period of intense contemplation under the Bodhi tree, Siddhartha achieved enlightenment, becoming the Buddha, which means "the Awakened One." He discovered the Four Noble Truths, which outline the nature of suffering and the path to liberation from it. With this knowledge, he began teaching others, spreading his insights on the Eightfold Path as a guide for moral and ethical living. Buddha's teachings emphasized compassion, mindfulness, and the impermanent nature of life. He founded a monastic community and traveled extensively to share his insights, attracting followers and establishing Buddhism as a major world religion. His legacy continues to influence millions, promoting peace and mindful living across diverse cultures. Buddha, also known as Siddhartha Gautama, was a spiritual teacher who founded Buddhism. He taught about the nature of suffering and the path to enlightenment through the Four Noble Truths. His philosophy emphasizes compassion, mindfulness, and understanding the impermanence of life.