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Kushinara NIBBĀNA Bhumi Pagoda White Home, Puniya Bhumi Bengaluru, Prabuddha Bharat International.
02/13/21
LESSON 3595 Sat 13 Feb 2021 JCSS
(Jagatheesan Chandrasekharan Spiritual Scientist)-KUSHINAGAR | the Maitreya Buddha Project | 152m — India’s and the World’s Tallest Statue and Buddhist temple!-Prabuddha Bharat’s largest Buddha Statue underway in Kolkata |
DO GOOD PURIFY MIND with HEALTH AND WEALTH
To be Happy, Well and Secure!
With Calm, Quiet, Alert, Attentive and Equanimity Mind with
Clear Understanding that Everything is Changing!
And Attain Eternal Bliss as Final Goal!
Kushinara Nibbana Bhumi Pagoda- Free Online Analytical Research and Practice University
for “Discovery of the Awakened One with Awareness Universe”
in 116 Classical Languages.
3D 360 Degree Circle Vision Meditation Lab.
White Home,
668, 5A Main Road, 8th Cross
HAL III Stage,
Puniya Bhumi Bengaluru,
Magadhi karnataka State,
Prabuddha Bharat International.
WINNING INDUSTRIES and
PEOPLE :
1. DIGITAL PRODUCTS,
2. GIG ECONOMY,
3. STOCK MARKET INVESTING,
4. HOME GARDENING,
2. GIG ECONOMY,
3. STOCK MARKET INVESTING,
4. HOME GARDENING,
5. ONLINE COACHING/TEACHING,
7. ALTERNATE ENERGY,
8. INSURANCE,
9. ALTERNATE MEDICINES,
10. GAMING,
11. HEALTHCARE,
12. AFFILIATE MARKET,
13. NETWORK MARKETING,
14. DATA SCIENCES,
15. SPIRITUAL SCIENCES.
6. MENTAL HEALTH,
7. ALTERNATE ENERGY,
8. INSURANCE,
9. ALTERNATE MEDICINES,
10. GAMING,
11. HEALTHCARE,
12. AFFILIATE MARKET,
13. NETWORK MARKETING,
14. DATA SCIENCES,
15. SPIRITUAL SCIENCES.
I am not able to get the training I asked for “How To Get Anything You Want.”
are not working. I request you to send you training material to
jcs4ever@outlook.com or buddhasaid2us@gmail.com or
jchandrasekharan@yahoo.com. I wish tobe a working partner with you and
my http://sarvajan.ambedkar.org may be linked with https://www.marieforleo.com/2012/05/manifesting/#mf-comment-form
Hello!
I am
I am
JCSS
(Jagatheesan Chandrasekharan Spiritual Scientist) creator, an
entrepreneur, writer, philanthropist & unshakable optimist dedicated
to helping healthy & wealthy people with the art of earning and
giving become the persons they most want to be & proud to partner
with them including Sundar Pichai & led orgs to bring digital skills
training to jobseekers grow their skills with
(Jagatheesan Chandrasekharan Spiritual Scientist) creator, an
entrepreneur, writer, philanthropist & unshakable optimist dedicated
to helping healthy & wealthy people with the art of earning and
giving become the persons they most want to be & proud to partner
with them including Sundar Pichai & led orgs to bring digital skills
training to jobseekers grow their skills with
WINNING INDUSTRIES and
PEOPLE :through
1. DIGITAL PRODUCTS,
2. GIG ECONOMY,
3. STOCK MARKET INVESTING,
4. HOME GARDENING,
2. GIG ECONOMY,
3. STOCK MARKET INVESTING,
4. HOME GARDENING,
5. ONLINE COACHING/TEACHING,
7. ALTERNATE ENERGY,
8. INSURANCE,
9. ALTERNATE MEDICINES,
10. GAMING,
11. HEALTHCARE,
12. AFFILIATE MARKET,
13. NETWORK MARKETING,
14. DATA SCIENCES,
15. SPIRITUAL SCIENCES.
6. MENTAL HEALTH,
7. ALTERNATE ENERGY,
8. INSURANCE,
9. ALTERNATE MEDICINES,
10. GAMING,
11. HEALTHCARE,
12. AFFILIATE MARKET,
13. NETWORK MARKETING,
14. DATA SCIENCES,
15. SPIRITUAL SCIENCES.
wish
to be gifted to share and be a working partner with the world and job
is to help them get them out there, co-creating with the universe, a
creative process doing is using our creative energy to co-create with
the energy around us. We must all put out vibrations, from super
negative to super positive, and their vibration attracts good or bad
things into their lives.
to be gifted to share and be a working partner with the world and job
is to help them get them out there, co-creating with the universe, a
creative process doing is using our creative energy to co-create with
the energy around us. We must all put out vibrations, from super
negative to super positive, and their vibration attracts good or bad
things into their lives.
Open
to experiences the universe brings their way, could receive anything
they want. Could be called this God, spirit, love or whatever else they
want.
to experiences the universe brings their way, could receive anything
they want. Could be called this God, spirit, love or whatever else they
want.
A
born-and-raised Prabuddha Bharat human being with nothing more than
Mini Mac Desk Top, Apple Smart Phone and a dream, is proud to have
created a socially conscious digital empire that touches millions.
born-and-raised Prabuddha Bharat human being with nothing more than
Mini Mac Desk Top, Apple Smart Phone and a dream, is proud to have
created a socially conscious digital empire that touches millions.
Through http://sarvajan.ambedkar.org
Wish
to be world-class online training programs, for an audience in 195
countries, to help people dream big and back it up with meaningful
action to create results.
to be world-class online training programs, for an audience in 195
countries, to help people dream big and back it up with meaningful
action to create results.
Insatiably
curious about human potential. Wanted to know, what exactly is it that
makes people genuinely happy, successful and creatively fulfilled, find
a way to thrive, often despite the most challenging circumstances.
curious about human potential. Wanted to know, what exactly is it that
makes people genuinely happy, successful and creatively fulfilled, find
a way to thrive, often despite the most challenging circumstances.
Also
passionate about a multitude of seemingly unconnected things: writing,
hip-hop, psychology, entrepreneurship, creativity, spirituality, fitness
and philanthropy.
passionate about a multitude of seemingly unconnected things: writing,
hip-hop, psychology, entrepreneurship, creativity, spirituality, fitness
and philanthropy.
1. The poor are Happy with Health and Wealth because they - work & work.
2. The rich are Happy with Health and Wealth because they - exploit the poor.
3. The soldiers are Happy with Health and Wealth because they - protects both.
4. The taxpayers are Happy with Health and Wealth because they - pays for all three.
5. The bankers are Happy with Health and Wealth because they - robs all four.
6. The lawyers are Happy with Health and Wealth because they - misleads all five.
7. The doctors are Happy with Health and Wealth because they - bills all six.
8. The goons are Happy with Health and Wealth because they - scare all of seven.
9. The politicians - lives happily with Health and Wealth on account of all eight.
Written in 43 B.C. Valid even today !
|
|
Guest
Gabby Bernstein joins Marie to talk about why the struggle to achieve in life — career, relationships, health or happiness — is an inside job. www.marieforleo.com
|
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Kushinara
Nibbana Bhumi Pagoda- Free Online Analytical Research and Practice University for “Discovery of Buddha the Awakened One with Awareness Universe” in 116 Classical Languages sarvajan.ambedkar.org
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http://sarvajan.ambedkar.org/?m=200803
KUSHINAGAR | the Maitreya Buddha Project | 152m — India’s and the World’s Tallest Statue and Buddhist temple!
26 July, 2007 by feloniousvindaloo
The Maitreya Project, Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh, India
…The World’s tallest statue and a brilliant religious masterpiece dedicated to the Maitreya Buddha!
Now,
another great religious project has officially been given the go-ahead
in one of the poorest parts of India. The Maitreya Project is a tribute
to Buddhism for and from the land of the Buddha and is as a multi-faith
cooperative designed by Tibetans who call India their home as as a
lasting gift to India and Buddhism.
another great religious project has officially been given the go-ahead
in one of the poorest parts of India. The Maitreya Project is a tribute
to Buddhism for and from the land of the Buddha and is as a multi-faith
cooperative designed by Tibetans who call India their home as as a
lasting gift to India and Buddhism.
In
this era of veritable skyscraper-hedonism (*cough*Dubai*coughh* j/k),
this project is unique in that it is designed to fulfill a completely
selfless goal, namely “to benefit as many people as possible.” A
monumental sustainable work of art that will serve as a constant source
of inspiration and a symbol of loving-kindness, work will soon begin on
the 152 meter-tall Maitreya Buddha Statue that is the centerpiece of a
large temple complex.
this era of veritable skyscraper-hedonism (*cough*Dubai*coughh* j/k),
this project is unique in that it is designed to fulfill a completely
selfless goal, namely “to benefit as many people as possible.” A
monumental sustainable work of art that will serve as a constant source
of inspiration and a symbol of loving-kindness, work will soon begin on
the 152 meter-tall Maitreya Buddha Statue that is the centerpiece of a
large temple complex.
An
engineering marvel that at will not only be — at three times the size
of the Statue of Liberty — the world’s tallest statue and world’s
tallest temple but will also be the world’s largest (first?)
statue-skyscraper, designed to have a lifespan surpassing a 1,000 years.
engineering marvel that at will not only be — at three times the size
of the Statue of Liberty — the world’s tallest statue and world’s
tallest temple but will also be the world’s largest (first?)
statue-skyscraper, designed to have a lifespan surpassing a 1,000 years.
For
more information and a large collection of pictures of this beautiful
project originally posted by me on Skyscrapercity.com, read on!…
more information and a large collection of pictures of this beautiful
project originally posted by me on Skyscrapercity.com, read on!…
The
focal point of Indian architecture, like its culture, has always been
religious in nature. Just as the Indian economic boom is bringing
incredible economic and architectural growth in the secular area, so has
Indian religious architecture once again become manifest in the
construction of some of the largest, massive, and most intricate
religious architecture the world has seen, from the recently completed
Akshardham Temple, New Delhi — the largest volume Hindu Temple in India,
to the under construction Global Vipassana Pagoda, Mumbai — the largest
stupa, largest dome, and largest rock cave in the world, to the planned
Sri Mayapur Vedic Temple and Planetarium, Mayapur, the world’s tallest
Hindu temple.
focal point of Indian architecture, like its culture, has always been
religious in nature. Just as the Indian economic boom is bringing
incredible economic and architectural growth in the secular area, so has
Indian religious architecture once again become manifest in the
construction of some of the largest, massive, and most intricate
religious architecture the world has seen, from the recently completed
Akshardham Temple, New Delhi — the largest volume Hindu Temple in India,
to the under construction Global Vipassana Pagoda, Mumbai — the largest
stupa, largest dome, and largest rock cave in the world, to the planned
Sri Mayapur Vedic Temple and Planetarium, Mayapur, the world’s tallest
Hindu temple.
And
now the Maitreya Buddha Statue is to be another gem added to this crow.
The statue is a veritable temple-skyscraper that will contain 17
individual shrine rooms. The highest room at 140 meters high — the
equviliant height of the 40th storey of a standard building. This statue
and complex will be a fusion of Indian and Tibetan architectural styles
that will adhere to ancient Vaastu Shastra design code and will also
hold the world’s largest collection of Lord Buddha’s relics.
now the Maitreya Buddha Statue is to be another gem added to this crow.
The statue is a veritable temple-skyscraper that will contain 17
individual shrine rooms. The highest room at 140 meters high — the
equviliant height of the 40th storey of a standard building. This statue
and complex will be a fusion of Indian and Tibetan architectural styles
that will adhere to ancient Vaastu Shastra design code and will also
hold the world’s largest collection of Lord Buddha’s relics.
^
A cutaway view of the 152 meter Maitreya statue and throne building
showing the spaces and levels within. Note that the throne itself will
be a 17 storey fully functional temple, with 15 additional shrine rooms
in the the body of the Maitreya statue.
A cutaway view of the 152 meter Maitreya statue and throne building
showing the spaces and levels within. Note that the throne itself will
be a 17 storey fully functional temple, with 15 additional shrine rooms
in the the body of the Maitreya statue.
Apart
from the statue/skyscraper, the Maitreya Project organizers will also
build free hospitals and schools servicing tens of thousands of poor,
and also be a huge catalyst for infrastructure and tourism development
efforts in one of the most economically backwards parts of India.
from the statue/skyscraper, the Maitreya Project organizers will also
build free hospitals and schools servicing tens of thousands of poor,
and also be a huge catalyst for infrastructure and tourism development
efforts in one of the most economically backwards parts of India.
The
project is a joint religious collaboration by organizations
representing the various sects and faiths that revere the Buddha: from
Hinduism to Mahayana to Vajrayana to Hinayana to Jaina to Christian and
Muslim. Under guidance of the overall project conceptualizer,
Nepalese-Tibetan spiritual leader Lama Zopa Rinpoche, the Project was
funded by Buddhist and Hindu temples, social organizations, religious
groups and by individuals in India, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Tibet,
China, Japan, Korea, the UK and America.
project is a joint religious collaboration by organizations
representing the various sects and faiths that revere the Buddha: from
Hinduism to Mahayana to Vajrayana to Hinayana to Jaina to Christian and
Muslim. Under guidance of the overall project conceptualizer,
Nepalese-Tibetan spiritual leader Lama Zopa Rinpoche, the Project was
funded by Buddhist and Hindu temples, social organizations, religious
groups and by individuals in India, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Tibet,
China, Japan, Korea, the UK and America.
Through
this project, India once again shows that the ancient arts of massive
devotional architecture continues to undergo a veritable renaissance.
this project, India once again shows that the ancient arts of massive
devotional architecture continues to undergo a veritable renaissance.
—–==–=–==—–
The Maitreya Complex: Project Detail
^ A prerendering of the Maitreya Buddha statue and temple, showing its massive size.
The
Maitreya Project “is based on the belief that inner peace and outer
peace share a cause and effect relationship and that loving-kindness
leads to peace at every level of society — peace for individuals,
families, communities and the world.”
Maitreya Project “is based on the belief that inner peace and outer
peace share a cause and effect relationship and that loving-kindness
leads to peace at every level of society — peace for individuals,
families, communities and the world.”
The
entire temple complex is designed to be completely sustainable, meaning
that it will quite literally have the same environmental impact (i.e.
emit the same amount of carbon dioxide and methane) as the paddy field
it will be constructed.
entire temple complex is designed to be completely sustainable, meaning
that it will quite literally have the same environmental impact (i.e.
emit the same amount of carbon dioxide and methane) as the paddy field
it will be constructed.
The
Project will include schools and universities that focus on ethical and
spiritual development as well as academic achievement, and a healthcare
network based around a teaching hospital of international standard with
the intention of supplementing the medical services currently provided
by the government to provide healthcare services, particularly for the
poor and underprivileged.
Project will include schools and universities that focus on ethical and
spiritual development as well as academic achievement, and a healthcare
network based around a teaching hospital of international standard with
the intention of supplementing the medical services currently provided
by the government to provide healthcare services, particularly for the
poor and underprivileged.
As
such, the Maitreya Project organizers are working in tandem with the
local, regional and state governments in Uttar Pradesh, India, who have
fully supported the project. To this effect, the Kushinagar Special
Development Area Authority will support the planned development of the
area surrounding the Project.
such, the Maitreya Project organizers are working in tandem with the
local, regional and state governments in Uttar Pradesh, India, who have
fully supported the project. To this effect, the Kushinagar Special
Development Area Authority will support the planned development of the
area surrounding the Project.
The
total project cost is estimated at $250 million, but the project will
develop this impoverished region and will earn a hundredfold more that
will be funneled into the Maitreya Project’s historical preservation
plans and charities.
total project cost is estimated at $250 million, but the project will
develop this impoverished region and will earn a hundredfold more that
will be funneled into the Maitreya Project’s historical preservation
plans and charities.
^ Maitreya Project engineers on-site
—–==–=–==—–
The Location of the Maitreya Complex
The
Maitreya Buddha project was originally concieved to be built in Bodh
Gaya, Bihar state, the site of the Buddha’s enlightenment, but due to
threat of delays due to red tape, was moved to what was seen to be a
more appropriate location, the village of Kushinagar, in Uttar Pradesh
state.
Maitreya Buddha project was originally concieved to be built in Bodh
Gaya, Bihar state, the site of the Buddha’s enlightenment, but due to
threat of delays due to red tape, was moved to what was seen to be a
more appropriate location, the village of Kushinagar, in Uttar Pradesh
state.
Kushinagar
is a place of great historical and spiritual significance. It is the
place where Shakyamuni (Historical) Buddha passed away and it is
predicted to be the birthplace of the next Buddha, Maitreya – the Buddha
of Loving-kindness - of whom this temple is dedicated to.
is a place of great historical and spiritual significance. It is the
place where Shakyamuni (Historical) Buddha passed away and it is
predicted to be the birthplace of the next Buddha, Maitreya – the Buddha
of Loving-kindness - of whom this temple is dedicated to.
^ The original conception of the Maitreya Buddha statue, then to be located at Bodh Gaya
Recognising
the long-term benefits Maitreya Project is bringing to the region, the
State Government of Uttar Pradesh is providing, free of charge, 750
acres of mainly agricultural land in Kushinagar.
the long-term benefits Maitreya Project is bringing to the region, the
State Government of Uttar Pradesh is providing, free of charge, 750
acres of mainly agricultural land in Kushinagar.
^ A view of the Maitreya Project land site, currently rice paddy
Indeed,
the Project itslef will be located adjacent to the ancient
Mahaparinirvana Temple, commemorating the Buddha’s passing, the ancient
Ramabhar Stupa, commemorating the Buddha’s cremation site, as well as
several equally old and older Hindu temples. It is predicted that the
pilgrimage, tourism and development capital that will flow into this
region because of this project will created sustainable income for the
restoration, refurbishment and maintinance of these ancient sacred
sites.
the Project itslef will be located adjacent to the ancient
Mahaparinirvana Temple, commemorating the Buddha’s passing, the ancient
Ramabhar Stupa, commemorating the Buddha’s cremation site, as well as
several equally old and older Hindu temples. It is predicted that the
pilgrimage, tourism and development capital that will flow into this
region because of this project will created sustainable income for the
restoration, refurbishment and maintinance of these ancient sacred
sites.
Surrounding
the complex is the Kushinagar Special Development Area, designed as a
sustainable development entity that will coordinate the various
organizations involved in the project and surrounding tourist and
general development that will come with the project.
the complex is the Kushinagar Special Development Area, designed as a
sustainable development entity that will coordinate the various
organizations involved in the project and surrounding tourist and
general development that will come with the project.
-=—-=—=–
The Kushinagar Special Development Area
The
Maitreya Project and the Uttar Pradesh have worked together to create
the Kushinagar Special Development Area (KSDA), an additional area of
7.5 kilometres surrounding the Maitreya Project site.
Maitreya Project and the Uttar Pradesh have worked together to create
the Kushinagar Special Development Area (KSDA), an additional area of
7.5 kilometres surrounding the Maitreya Project site.
Municipal
bylaws and planning regulations have now been adopted to protect the
KSDA from the kind of opportunism that is often seen in communities of
emerging economic development. Maitreya Project has representation on
the legal bodies governing the KSDA as well as the work of monitoring
the development of the region will be ongoing.
bylaws and planning regulations have now been adopted to protect the
KSDA from the kind of opportunism that is often seen in communities of
emerging economic development. Maitreya Project has representation on
the legal bodies governing the KSDA as well as the work of monitoring
the development of the region will be ongoing.
It is within the KSDA that Maitreya Project will implement its extensive healthcare and education programmes.
—–==–=–==—–
Maitreya Project Preliminary Site Plan
Maitreya
Project’s lead architects, Aros Ltd., have drawn up a preliminary
proposed plan for the beautiful 750 acre Kushinagar site.
Project’s lead architects, Aros Ltd., have drawn up a preliminary
proposed plan for the beautiful 750 acre Kushinagar site.
Main features being:
The Ceremonial Gateway & Maitreya Statue Sanctuary will lead visitors to the 500ft/152m Maitreya Buddha statue.
The Maitreya Buddha Statue will sit on the Throne Building
containing temples, prayer halls, exhibition halls, a museum, library
and audio-visual theatre.
The Hospital and Healthcare Centre will be the hub of Maitreya
Project’s public healthcare programmes. The development of these
programmes will begin with primary care clinics in the communities of
the Kushinagar Special Development Area. Over the years, the medical
services will be developed and expanded to meet the needs of many
communities. A complete healthcare network will be developed to provide
medical services that are centred around a teaching hospital of
international standard. The healthcare system will primarily serve the
poor and under-privileged, even in remote parts of the area.
The Centre of Learning, will eventually serve students from primary to university levels of education.
The Meditation Park will be a secluded area next to the ancient
Mahaparinirvana Temple, which commemorates Buddha Shakyamuni’s passing
away from our world, the ancient Ramabhar Stupa, commemorating the
Buddha’s holy cremation site, and monasteries and temples belonging to
many different traditions of Buddhism that include both modern
facilities and ancient ruins.
^ A View from the Maitreya Project Park
All
of these features will be set in beautifully landscaped parks with
meditation pavilions, beautiful water fountains and tranquil pools. All
of the buildings and outdoor features will contain an extensive
collection of inspiring sacred art.
of these features will be set in beautifully landscaped parks with
meditation pavilions, beautiful water fountains and tranquil pools. All
of the buildings and outdoor features will contain an extensive
collection of inspiring sacred art.
^ A view of the temple from the gardens surrounding the site
—–==–=–==—–
The Statue of the Maitreya Buddha
The
center of the Maitreya Project, of course, is the bronze plate statue
of the Maitreya Buddha itself. Rising 500ft/152m in height, the statue
will sit on a stone throne temple building located in an enclosed
sanctuary park.
center of the Maitreya Project, of course, is the bronze plate statue
of the Maitreya Buddha itself. Rising 500ft/152m in height, the statue
will sit on a stone throne temple building located in an enclosed
sanctuary park.
-=—-=—=–
The Living Wall:
Surrounding
the Maitreya Buddha statue is a four-storey halo of buildings called
the “Living Wall.” This ring of buildings contains accomadation for the
complex’s monks and workers as well as rooms for functions ancillary to
the statue and throne building.
the Maitreya Buddha statue is a four-storey halo of buildings called
the “Living Wall.” This ring of buildings contains accomadation for the
complex’s monks and workers as well as rooms for functions ancillary to
the statue and throne building.
The
wall also serves two additional important functions. In light of
cross-border Islamist terrorist attacks against Indian holy sites in
Ayodhya, Akshardham and Jama Masjid, the Living Wall also is designed to
be a security cordon eqivalent to a modern castle wall, staffed with
security personnel and designed to withstand an attack from 200 heavily
armed raiders.
wall also serves two additional important functions. In light of
cross-border Islamist terrorist attacks against Indian holy sites in
Ayodhya, Akshardham and Jama Masjid, the Living Wall also is designed to
be a security cordon eqivalent to a modern castle wall, staffed with
security personnel and designed to withstand an attack from 200 heavily
armed raiders.
^ Prerendering of the Statue showing the location of the living wall, main gate, paths and garden areas.
The
final major function it performs is that of the boundary for the
enclosed sanctuary area of landscaped gardens, pools and fountains for
meditation directly surrounding the Maitreya statue. The entry to the
enclosed sanctuary and the Maitreya statue will be serviced by a main
gate.
final major function it performs is that of the boundary for the
enclosed sanctuary area of landscaped gardens, pools and fountains for
meditation directly surrounding the Maitreya statue. The entry to the
enclosed sanctuary and the Maitreya statue will be serviced by a main
gate.
^ The tree and stupa lined paths to the ceremonial gate, which is the entrance to the sanctuary.
Passing the ceremonial gate, landscaped paths allow devotes to do Pradakshina (circumambulation) of the Maitreya Statue.
^ The terraced circumambulation paths, with the gate in the background.
Within
the sanctuary, the gardens provide a place for relaxing, resting, and
meditating, with educational artwork depicting the Buddha’s life.
the sanctuary, the gardens provide a place for relaxing, resting, and
meditating, with educational artwork depicting the Buddha’s life.
^ A view towards the statue from one of these stupa lined terraces.
Walking
further inward, the is Maitreya Statue and Throne Temple, surrounded by
tranquil ponds and fountains that will cool the area in the intense
Indian summer.
further inward, the is Maitreya Statue and Throne Temple, surrounded by
tranquil ponds and fountains that will cool the area in the intense
Indian summer.
^ The Maitreya statue and throne surrounded by the tranquil ponds containing Buddha statues of the meditation sanctuary.
-=—-=—=–
The Throne Temple:
The
“seat” of the statue is itelf a fully functioning 17-storey temple
roughly 80m x 50m in size. The building will contain two very large
prayer halls, as well as meditation and meeting rooms, a library and
facilities to deal with the anticipated annual influx of 2 million
visitors.
“seat” of the statue is itelf a fully functioning 17-storey temple
roughly 80m x 50m in size. The building will contain two very large
prayer halls, as well as meditation and meeting rooms, a library and
facilities to deal with the anticipated annual influx of 2 million
visitors.
^ The entrance to the throne building with the Maitreya Buddha statue resting upon the lotus on top
Pilgrims
will enter the throne temple through the giant lotus that supports the
Maitreya Buddha statue’s feet. The throne temple contains several
entrance rooms that contain works of art on the Buddha’s life and
teachings.
will enter the throne temple through the giant lotus that supports the
Maitreya Buddha statue’s feet. The throne temple contains several
entrance rooms that contain works of art on the Buddha’s life and
teachings.
^ The first major prayer hall of throne building, containing works of art on the Buddha.
Continuing
inward is the cavernous main auditorium of the Maitreya Temple
containing the Sanctum Sanctorum which in Indian architectural tradition
is the innermost most sacred room where the actual shrine is held. This
Sanctum Sanctorum is unique in that within it contains two large
auditorium temples.
inward is the cavernous main auditorium of the Maitreya Temple
containing the Sanctum Sanctorum which in Indian architectural tradition
is the innermost most sacred room where the actual shrine is held. This
Sanctum Sanctorum is unique in that within it contains two large
auditorium temples.
The
first temple in the Sanctum Sanctorum is the Temple of the Maitreya
Buddha, containing a huge, 12 meter tall statue of the Buddha.
first temple in the Sanctum Sanctorum is the Temple of the Maitreya
Buddha, containing a huge, 12 meter tall statue of the Buddha.
^ Upon entering the Sanctum Sanctorum, the 12 meter tall statue of the Buddha can be glimpsed.
A
wall containing 200,000 images of the Buddhas rises up to the throne
ceiling over 50 metres above, behind both auditorium temples.
wall containing 200,000 images of the Buddhas rises up to the throne
ceiling over 50 metres above, behind both auditorium temples.
^ A glimpse from the ambulatory of the side walls within the Maitreya Temple and the 1,000 paintings of the Buddhas.
The
centerpiece shrine of the Maitreya Temple is the 12 meter tall Maitreya
Buddha. Stairs and elevators lead to viewing platforms around the
Maitreya Temple, allowing views of the entire room
centerpiece shrine of the Maitreya Temple is the 12 meter tall Maitreya
Buddha. Stairs and elevators lead to viewing platforms around the
Maitreya Temple, allowing views of the entire room
^ A view of the Maitreya Buddha statue and the wall of the 200,000 images of the Buddha, seen from viewing platforms.
The
next biggest shrine in the Sanctum Sanctorum is the Temple of the
Shakyamuni Buddha which contains a 10 meter statue of the Shakyamuni
(Historical) Buddha. Behind the shrine is the continuation of the wall
of 200,000 Buddhas.
next biggest shrine in the Sanctum Sanctorum is the Temple of the
Shakyamuni Buddha which contains a 10 meter statue of the Shakyamuni
(Historical) Buddha. Behind the shrine is the continuation of the wall
of 200,000 Buddhas.
^
On a higher level yet again, the Shakyamuni Temple will house a 10
metre (33 ft.) statue of the historical Buddha. The glass rear wall will
reveal the wall of 200,000 Buddhas within the Maitreya Temple.
On a higher level yet again, the Shakyamuni Temple will house a 10
metre (33 ft.) statue of the historical Buddha. The glass rear wall will
reveal the wall of 200,000 Buddhas within the Maitreya Temple.
^ Another view of the Shakyamuni Temple.
In
Indian architecture, the Sanctum Sanctorum is encircled by a pathway
that allows devotees to do Pradakshina (circumambulation) of the shrine.
The Maitreya Temple, following this tradition, also has this feature.
Indian architecture, the Sanctum Sanctorum is encircled by a pathway
that allows devotees to do Pradakshina (circumambulation) of the shrine.
The Maitreya Temple, following this tradition, also has this feature.
^
The main throne building and Pradakshina path where visitors may
circumambulate Sanctum Sanctorum of the Maitreya Temple, which can be
seen through the doorways on the right
The main throne building and Pradakshina path where visitors may
circumambulate Sanctum Sanctorum of the Maitreya Temple, which can be
seen through the doorways on the right
From
this area, elevators and staircases will carry visitors to the various
other rooms in the 17 storey base, including prayer halls, meditation
halls and libraries. Eventually conveying devotees to a large rooftop
garden terrace upon which the Maitreya Buddha statue actually rests.
this area, elevators and staircases will carry visitors to the various
other rooms in the 17 storey base, including prayer halls, meditation
halls and libraries. Eventually conveying devotees to a large rooftop
garden terrace upon which the Maitreya Buddha statue actually rests.
Here,
rising into the upper legs of the main statue, is the Merit Field Hall
with a 10 meter, 3-dimensional depiction of over 390 Buddhas and
Buddhist masters at it’s center. Surrounding this will be 12 individual
shrine rooms devoted to particular deities in the Hindu-Buddhist
pantheon.
rising into the upper legs of the main statue, is the Merit Field Hall
with a 10 meter, 3-dimensional depiction of over 390 Buddhas and
Buddhist masters at it’s center. Surrounding this will be 12 individual
shrine rooms devoted to particular deities in the Hindu-Buddhist
pantheon.
^ The Merit Field Hall with its 10m, 3-D depiction.
From
the garden terrace, another bank of elevators will whisk pilgrims to
the higher shrine rooms contained in the statue’s torso and head.
the garden terrace, another bank of elevators will whisk pilgrims to
the higher shrine rooms contained in the statue’s torso and head.
-=—-=—=–
The Statue:
The
statue will contain 15 individual shrine rooms and have a total height
of 152 meters, with the highest shrine room in the statue’s head, at
over 140 meters up. This is roughly equivalent in height to a 40-storey
skyscraper.
statue will contain 15 individual shrine rooms and have a total height
of 152 meters, with the highest shrine room in the statue’s head, at
over 140 meters up. This is roughly equivalent in height to a 40-storey
skyscraper.
^ A cutaway diagram of the statue-tower.
The
statue is itself an engineering marvel. Rather than simply be designed
in its massive size, the statue of the Maitreya Buddha was actually
reversed-designed from a carved statue only a meter and half in height
and the structure’s engineering extrapolated into its current form.
statue is itself an engineering marvel. Rather than simply be designed
in its massive size, the statue of the Maitreya Buddha was actually
reversed-designed from a carved statue only a meter and half in height
and the structure’s engineering extrapolated into its current form.
^
The original statue from which the Maitreya Buddha statue tower is
extrapolated from was hand carved, and is in the Indian Gupta style.
The original statue from which the Maitreya Buddha statue tower is
extrapolated from was hand carved, and is in the Indian Gupta style.
Moreover,
the statue is designed to stand for at least 1,000 years, supporting
the Project’s spiritual and social work for at least a millennium. Due
to the statue’s millenia-passing lifespan, the huge structure is
designed to withstand high winds, extreme temperature changes, seasonal
rains, possible earthquakes and floods and environmental pollution.
the statue is designed to stand for at least 1,000 years, supporting
the Project’s spiritual and social work for at least a millennium. Due
to the statue’s millenia-passing lifespan, the huge structure is
designed to withstand high winds, extreme temperature changes, seasonal
rains, possible earthquakes and floods and environmental pollution.
Extensive
research has gone into developing “Nikalium”, the special
nickel-aluminum bronze alloy to be used for the outer ’skin’ of the
statue designed to withstand the most challenging conditions that could
conceivably arise.
research has gone into developing “Nikalium”, the special
nickel-aluminum bronze alloy to be used for the outer ’skin’ of the
statue designed to withstand the most challenging conditions that could
conceivably arise.
As
the bronze ’skin’ will expand and contract dramatically due to daily
temperature changes, the statue will require special expansion joints
that were designed to be not only invisible to the observer, but also in
such a way as to protect the internal supports of the statue from water
leakage, erosion and corrosion. The material and structural components
of the statue are meant to be able to withstand potential unforseen
disasters like earthquakes and monsoon flooding.
the bronze ’skin’ will expand and contract dramatically due to daily
temperature changes, the statue will require special expansion joints
that were designed to be not only invisible to the observer, but also in
such a way as to protect the internal supports of the statue from water
leakage, erosion and corrosion. The material and structural components
of the statue are meant to be able to withstand potential unforseen
disasters like earthquakes and monsoon flooding.
^ The engineering process of the Buddha statue.
—–==–=–==—–
Construction Status — June, 2007
The
Maitreya Project recently passed its first major milestone this month,
when, in compliance with the Indian Land Acquistion Act, the State
Government of Uttar Pradesh has completed the necessary legal
requirements for the acquisition of the 750 acre land site to be made
available to the Project.
Maitreya Project recently passed its first major milestone this month,
when, in compliance with the Indian Land Acquistion Act, the State
Government of Uttar Pradesh has completed the necessary legal
requirements for the acquisition of the 750 acre land site to be made
available to the Project.
While
there are still permissions and clearances to be obtained, it has now
officially given the green light and the full support of the government.
there are still permissions and clearances to be obtained, it has now
officially given the green light and the full support of the government.
It
is expected that the Project will formally break ground either later
this year or early 2008, with an expected construction time of five
years. The project will employ more than a thousand skilled and
semi-skilled workers in the construction phase.
is expected that the Project will formally break ground either later
this year or early 2008, with an expected construction time of five
years. The project will employ more than a thousand skilled and
semi-skilled workers in the construction phase.
—–==–=–==—–
For more information on this fantastic project, check out
Maitreyaproject.org
Sorry
for the length of the post, but I wanted this veritable essay to be a
comprehensive introduction to what Maitreya Project organizers aim to
literally be the 8th Wonder of the World, and an everlasting symbol of
Religious Syncretism, Tolerance, Compassion and most of all, Love.
for the length of the post, but I wanted this veritable essay to be a
comprehensive introduction to what Maitreya Project organizers aim to
literally be the 8th Wonder of the World, and an everlasting symbol of
Religious Syncretism, Tolerance, Compassion and most of all, Love.
A cause truely fitting of the Buddha, Shakya Muni Sri Siddharth Gautamaji.
American Buddhist Net
Uttar Pradesh to boast of world’s tallest Buddha statue
Fri, 2008-03-28 10:32 — ABN
Does
this sound good to you? Here’s a story about something similar in
Australia: Nowra to get its own Kung Fu temple: Australia ABN
this sound good to you? Here’s a story about something similar in
Australia: Nowra to get its own Kung Fu temple: Australia ABN
____________
Tuesday, 25 March , 2008, 18:25
Lucknow:
Decks are being cleared for the installation of the world’s tallest
Buddha statue in Kushinagar town of eastern Uttar Pradesh.
Decks are being cleared for the installation of the world’s tallest
Buddha statue in Kushinagar town of eastern Uttar Pradesh.
Uttar
Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati was understood to have directed
officials to speed up the acquisition and transfer of 600 acres of land
required for the Rs 10 billion project to be funded and undertaken by
the global Maitryi Group. Provision of land is UP government’s share in
the project.
Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati was understood to have directed
officials to speed up the acquisition and transfer of 600 acres of land
required for the Rs 10 billion project to be funded and undertaken by
the global Maitryi Group. Provision of land is UP government’s share in
the project.
For more news, analysis click here>> | For more Science and Medicine news click here >>
The
project involves installation of a 152-metre-tall bronze statue of Lord
Buddha along with a giant meditation centre, an international
university, a state-of-art world-class hospital and a museum. The
project also envisages an entertainment complex in the neighbourhood
that would include an amusement park and a five-star hotel.
project involves installation of a 152-metre-tall bronze statue of Lord
Buddha along with a giant meditation centre, an international
university, a state-of-art world-class hospital and a museum. The
project also envisages an entertainment complex in the neighbourhood
that would include an amusement park and a five-star hotel.
Nowra to get its own Kung Fu temple: Australia
Sat, 2006-06-10 08:25 — ABN
The more I read about this temple, the less I like it. See also this. ABN
_______________
There
will be a three-tier temple complex, with two pagodas, 500-room hotel, a
500-place kung fu academy. There’ll be some residential subdivision, a
27-hole golf course, herbal medicine, herbal gardens, acupuncture,
special massage, and that’s about it.
will be a three-tier temple complex, with two pagodas, 500-room hotel, a
500-place kung fu academy. There’ll be some residential subdivision, a
27-hole golf course, herbal medicine, herbal gardens, acupuncture,
special massage, and that’s about it.
AM - Saturday, 10 June , 2006 08:24:30
Reporter: John Taylor
ELIZABETH JACKSON: It’s probably the most famous temple in the world.
China’s Shaolin Temple has been made famous through books, films, and TV, because of its legendary kung fu fighting monks.
Now, the Zen Buddhist temple is looking to build another home for its monks, outside Nowra in New South Wales.
A deal to purchase 1,200 hectares will be signed in China today, as our Correspondent, John Taylor, reports.
LINK TO ORIGINAL
JOHN TAYLOR: In the history of kung fu, there is no other place like the Shaolin Temple.
The
1,500-year-old Zen Buddhist monastery in central China is home to
fighting monks, made famous in modern times on the big and small screen.
1,500-year-old Zen Buddhist monastery in central China is home to
fighting monks, made famous in modern times on the big and small screen.
If things go to plan, the monks may be about to set up a lavish home away from home, just south of Nowra.
Greg Watson is Mayor of the Shoalhaven City Council.
GREG WATSON: There will be a three-tier temple complex, with two pagodas, 500-room hotel, a 500-place kung fu academy.
There’ll
be some residential subdivision, a 27-hole golf course, herbal
medicine, herbal gardens, acupuncture, special massage, and that’s about
it.
be some residential subdivision, a 27-hole golf course, herbal
medicine, herbal gardens, acupuncture, special massage, and that’s about
it.
JOHN
TAYLOR: Today in central China’s Henan province Mayor Watson and the
Temple’s Abbott are to sign off on the monks’ purchase of a 1,200
hectare property south of Nowra.
TAYLOR: Today in central China’s Henan province Mayor Watson and the
Temple’s Abbott are to sign off on the monks’ purchase of a 1,200
hectare property south of Nowra.
Patrick Peng is the Abbott’s representative in Australia.
PATRICK
PENG: The Shaolin of course is very well known in China itself, so he
like to take this opportunity to try to introduce the Shaolin legacy,
the heritage to the rest of the world, through another outlet.
PENG: The Shaolin of course is very well known in China itself, so he
like to take this opportunity to try to introduce the Shaolin legacy,
the heritage to the rest of the world, through another outlet.
JOHN
TAYLOR: The NSW Government is still to give final approval to the
project. But speaking in Beijing yesterday, Mayor Greg Watson wasn’t
expecting a fight.
TAYLOR: The NSW Government is still to give final approval to the
project. But speaking in Beijing yesterday, Mayor Greg Watson wasn’t
expecting a fight.
GREG
WATSON: What happened was, I heard via a Member of Parliament, that the
Abbott was looking for a potential location to establish the second
Shaolin temple in the world, somewhere in Australia, and I said have I
got a deal for the Abbott?
WATSON: What happened was, I heard via a Member of Parliament, that the
Abbott was looking for a potential location to establish the second
Shaolin temple in the world, somewhere in Australia, and I said have I
got a deal for the Abbott?
JOHN TAYLOR: Who says religion and big business can’t mix?
The Shaolin Temple already has a performance touring the world, featuring the impressive skills of its fighting monks.
The Abbott’s man in Australia, Patrick Peng, says Shaolin is not just about kung fu.
PATRICK PENG: You know, it’s culture.
JOHN TAYLOR: Well can you have the two together, a tourist attraction and a functioning temple?
PATRICK
PENG: Oh yes, in fact, on the contrary. Nowadays many religions, not
only just Buddhism, Daoism, they’re all trying to make themselves more
relevant to the modern world, and really they’re not exclusive, they’re
not just men in the caves, you know.
PENG: Oh yes, in fact, on the contrary. Nowadays many religions, not
only just Buddhism, Daoism, they’re all trying to make themselves more
relevant to the modern world, and really they’re not exclusive, they’re
not just men in the caves, you know.
So what they’re trying to do is to share the philosophies and the lifestyle, the healthy lifestyle, to the world.
ELIZABETH
JACKSON: Patrick Peng, who represents the Abbott of the Shaolin Temple
in Australia, ending that report from John Taylor.
JACKSON: Patrick Peng, who represents the Abbott of the Shaolin Temple
in Australia, ending that report from John Taylor.
Thaindian News
Uttar Pradesh to have world’s tallest Buddha statue
March 25th, 2008 - 3:37 pm ICT by admin
Lucknow,
March 25 (IANS) Decks are being cleared for the installation of the
world’s tallest Buddha statue in Kushinagar town of eastern Uttar
Pradesh. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati was understood to have
directed officials to speed up the acquisition and transfer of 600 acres
of land required for the Rs.10 billion project to be funded and
undertaken by the global Maitryi group.
March 25 (IANS) Decks are being cleared for the installation of the
world’s tallest Buddha statue in Kushinagar town of eastern Uttar
Pradesh. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati was understood to have
directed officials to speed up the acquisition and transfer of 600 acres
of land required for the Rs.10 billion project to be funded and
undertaken by the global Maitryi group.
Proviuion of land is UP government’s share in the project.
The
project involves installation of a 152-metre-tall bronze statue of Lord
Buddha along with a giant meditation centre, an international
university, a state-of-art world-class hospital and a museum. The
project also envisages an entertainment complex in the neighbourhood
that would include an amusement park and a five-star hotel.
project involves installation of a 152-metre-tall bronze statue of Lord
Buddha along with a giant meditation centre, an international
university, a state-of-art world-class hospital and a museum. The
project also envisages an entertainment complex in the neighbourhood
that would include an amusement park and a five-star hotel.
UP
Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Misra presided over a high level meeting
of state officials, in which representatives from Maitryi were present
here Monday. A presentation on the project was made.
Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Misra presided over a high level meeting
of state officials, in which representatives from Maitryi were present
here Monday. A presentation on the project was made.
Significantly,
the project was initiated during the previous tenure of Chief Minister
Mayawati in 2003, after which it was put on the backburner during the
Mulayam Singh Yadav regime.
the project was initiated during the previous tenure of Chief Minister
Mayawati in 2003, after which it was put on the backburner during the
Mulayam Singh Yadav regime.
“Since then, it had been hanging fire, so we decided to revive it after Maitryi officials approached us,” Misra told IANS.
He said: “Of the 600 acres required for the project, we need to acquire only about 300 acres while the rest is government land.
“The
government had already started the acquisition process. The whole
project would not involve any major displacement of people and not more
than 70-80 farmers would be involved,” he said.
government had already started the acquisition process. The whole
project would not involve any major displacement of people and not more
than 70-80 farmers would be involved,” he said.
“We have worked out a handsome rehabilitation package for the farmers who would get displaced on account of the project.”
UP to have world’s tallest Buddha statue
Published: Wednesday, 26 March, 2008, 08:05 AM Doha Time
LUCKNOW: World’s tallest Buddha statue will be installed in Kushinagar town of eastern Uttar Pradesh.
Chief
Minister Mayawati has asked officials to speed up acquisition and
transfer of 600 acres of land required for the Rs10bn project to be
funded and undertaken by the global Maitryi group.
Minister Mayawati has asked officials to speed up acquisition and
transfer of 600 acres of land required for the Rs10bn project to be
funded and undertaken by the global Maitryi group.
The
state government will give the land for the project which involves
installation of a 152m tall bronze statue of Lord Buddha along with a
giant meditation centre, an international university, a state-of-art
hospital and a museum.
state government will give the land for the project which involves
installation of a 152m tall bronze statue of Lord Buddha along with a
giant meditation centre, an international university, a state-of-art
hospital and a museum.
The
project also envisages an entertainment complex in the neighbourhood
that would include an amusement park and a five-star hotel.
project also envisages an entertainment complex in the neighbourhood
that would include an amusement park and a five-star hotel.
Uttar
Pradesh Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Misra presided over a high level
meeting of state officials, in which representatives from Maitryi were
present here on Monday. A presentation on the project was made.
Pradesh Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Misra presided over a high level
meeting of state officials, in which representatives from Maitryi were
present here on Monday. A presentation on the project was made.
The project was initiated during the previous tenure of Mayawati in 2003, after which it was put on the backburner.
“Since then, it had been hanging fire, so we decided to revive it after Maitryi officials approached us,” Misra said.
“Of
the 600 acres required for the project, we need to acquire only about
300 acres while the rest is government land,” he said.- IANS
the 600 acres required for the project, we need to acquire only about
300 acres while the rest is government land,” he said.- IANS
India eNews Logo
From correspondents in Uttar Pradesh, India, 03:33 PM IST
Decks are being cleared for the installation of the world’s tallest Buddha statue in Kushinagar town of eastern Uttar Pradesh.
Uttar
Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati was understood to have directed
officials to speed up the acquisition and transfer of 600 acres of land
required for the Rs.10 billion project to be funded and undertaken by
the global Maitryi group.
Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati was understood to have directed
officials to speed up the acquisition and transfer of 600 acres of land
required for the Rs.10 billion project to be funded and undertaken by
the global Maitryi group.
Proviuion of land is UP government’s share in the project.
The
project involves installation of a 152-metre-tall bronze statue of Lord
Buddha along with a giant meditation centre, an international
university, a state-of-art world-class hospital and a museum. The
project also envisages an entertainment complex in the neighbourhood
that would include an amusement park and a five-star hotel.
project involves installation of a 152-metre-tall bronze statue of Lord
Buddha along with a giant meditation centre, an international
university, a state-of-art world-class hospital and a museum. The
project also envisages an entertainment complex in the neighbourhood
that would include an amusement park and a five-star hotel.
UP
Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Misra presided over a high level meeting
of state officials, in which representatives from Maitryi were present
here Monday. A presentation on the project was made.
Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Misra presided over a high level meeting
of state officials, in which representatives from Maitryi were present
here Monday. A presentation on the project was made.
Significantly,
the project was initiated during the previous tenure of Chief Minister
Mayawati in 2003, after which it was put on the backburner during the
Mulayam Singh Yadav regime.
the project was initiated during the previous tenure of Chief Minister
Mayawati in 2003, after which it was put on the backburner during the
Mulayam Singh Yadav regime.
‘Since then, it had been hanging fire, so we decided to revive it after Maitryi officials approached us,’ Misra told IANS.
He said: ‘Of the 600 acres required for the project, we need to acquire only about 300 acres while the rest is government land.
‘The
government had already started the acquisition process. The whole
project would not involve any major displacement of people and not more
than 70-80 farmers would be involved,’ he said.
government had already started the acquisition process. The whole
project would not involve any major displacement of people and not more
than 70-80 farmers would be involved,’ he said.
‘We have worked out a handsome rehabilitation package for the farmers who would get displaced on account of the project.’
India - Uttar Pradesh - Kushinagar Buddhist Site
Kushinagar Buddhist Site
Population : 14,000
Distance : 55km from Gorakhpur
¤ Kushinagar - A Site of Buddhist Parinirvana
KushinagarSituated
in Deoria district of eastern Uttar Pradesh, Kushinagara was a small
town in the days of the Buddha. But it became famous when the Buddha
died here, on his way from Rajgir to Sravasti. His last memorable words
were, “All composite things decay. Strive diligently!” This event is
known as the ‘Final Blowing-Out’ (Parinirvana) in Buddhist parlance.
Since then the place has become a celebrated pilgrim centre. It was the
capital of the kingdom of the Mallas, one of the 16 Janapadas (see
Sravasti).
in Deoria district of eastern Uttar Pradesh, Kushinagara was a small
town in the days of the Buddha. But it became famous when the Buddha
died here, on his way from Rajgir to Sravasti. His last memorable words
were, “All composite things decay. Strive diligently!” This event is
known as the ‘Final Blowing-Out’ (Parinirvana) in Buddhist parlance.
Since then the place has become a celebrated pilgrim centre. It was the
capital of the kingdom of the Mallas, one of the 16 Janapadas (see
Sravasti).
¤ Places of Interest
Muktabandhana Stupa
The
Muktabandhana Stupa was built by the Mallas just after the Buddha’s
death. It is built over the sacred relics of the Buddha himself. The
Stupa is also known as Ramabhar Stupa and is 50 ft tall. It is believed
that the Stupa was built on the spot where the Buddha was cremated.
Muktabandhana Stupa was built by the Mallas just after the Buddha’s
death. It is built over the sacred relics of the Buddha himself. The
Stupa is also known as Ramabhar Stupa and is 50 ft tall. It is believed
that the Stupa was built on the spot where the Buddha was cremated.
Nirvana Stupa
1km
west of the Muktabandhana Stupa is the Nirvana Stupa that was built in
the days of Ashoka. It was renovated in 1927 by the Burmese Buddhists.
In front of the Stupa is the Mahaparinirvana Temple in which is
installed a colossal sandstone statue of the Buddha in the reclining
position. It was built by the Mathura school of art and was brought to
Kushinagar by a Buddhist monk named Haribala during the reign of
Kumaragupta (c. a.d.415-454).
west of the Muktabandhana Stupa is the Nirvana Stupa that was built in
the days of Ashoka. It was renovated in 1927 by the Burmese Buddhists.
In front of the Stupa is the Mahaparinirvana Temple in which is
installed a colossal sandstone statue of the Buddha in the reclining
position. It was built by the Mathura school of art and was brought to
Kushinagar by a Buddhist monk named Haribala during the reign of
Kumaragupta (c. a.d.415-454).
Kushinagar
Once
in Kushinagar, it appears that time has come to a complete halt. This
sleepy town, with its serenity and unassuming beauty, absorbs visitors
into a contemplative mood. It is this place that the Buddha had chosen
to free himself from the cycles of death and life and, therefore, it
occupies a very special space in the heart of every Buddhist.
in Kushinagar, it appears that time has come to a complete halt. This
sleepy town, with its serenity and unassuming beauty, absorbs visitors
into a contemplative mood. It is this place that the Buddha had chosen
to free himself from the cycles of death and life and, therefore, it
occupies a very special space in the heart of every Buddhist.
Location
Kushinagar
is situated in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, 51 km off
Gorakhpur. The place, which is famous for the Mahaparinirvana (death) of
Lord Buddha, has been included in the famous Buddhist trail
encompassing Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal.
is situated in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, 51 km off
Gorakhpur. The place, which is famous for the Mahaparinirvana (death) of
Lord Buddha, has been included in the famous Buddhist trail
encompassing Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal.
Kushinagar
is also known as Kasia or Kusinara. The founder of Buddhism, Lord
Buddha passed away at this place near the Hiranyavati River and was
cremated at the Ramabhar stupa. It was once a celebrated center of the
Malla kingdom. Many of its stupas and viharas date back to 230 BC-AD
413. when its prosperity was at the peak. The Mauryan emperor Ashoka
added grandeur to this place by getting the magnificent statue of Buddha
carved on a single piece of red sandstone. Fa Hien, Huen Tsang, and
I-tsing, the three famous Chinese scholar travelers to India, all
visited Kushinagar.
is also known as Kasia or Kusinara. The founder of Buddhism, Lord
Buddha passed away at this place near the Hiranyavati River and was
cremated at the Ramabhar stupa. It was once a celebrated center of the
Malla kingdom. Many of its stupas and viharas date back to 230 BC-AD
413. when its prosperity was at the peak. The Mauryan emperor Ashoka
added grandeur to this place by getting the magnificent statue of Buddha
carved on a single piece of red sandstone. Fa Hien, Huen Tsang, and
I-tsing, the three famous Chinese scholar travelers to India, all
visited Kushinagar.
With
the decline of Buddhism, however, Kushinagar lost its importance and
suffered much neglect. It was only in the last century that Lord
Alexander Cunningham excavated many important remnants of the main site
such as the Matha Kua and Ramabhar stupa. Today, people from all over
the world visit Kushinagar. Many national and international societies
and groups have established their centers here.
the decline of Buddhism, however, Kushinagar lost its importance and
suffered much neglect. It was only in the last century that Lord
Alexander Cunningham excavated many important remnants of the main site
such as the Matha Kua and Ramabhar stupa. Today, people from all over
the world visit Kushinagar. Many national and international societies
and groups have established their centers here.
Climate
Like
other places in the Gangetic plain, the climate of Kushinagar is hot
and humid in the summers (mid-April-mid-September) with Maximum
Temperature touching 40-45°C. Winters are mild
other places in the Gangetic plain, the climate of Kushinagar is hot
and humid in the summers (mid-April-mid-September) with Maximum
Temperature touching 40-45°C. Winters are mild
and
Minimum Temperature in December can go down to around 5°C. Monsoon
reaches this region in June and remains here till September
Minimum Temperature in December can go down to around 5°C. Monsoon
reaches this region in June and remains here till September
Population
Around 22,35,505 people live here
Language
Hindi and Bhojpuri
Places of Interest
Mahaparinirvana Temple
The
Mahaparinirvana temple (also known as the Nirvana temple) is the main
attraction of Kushinagar. It is a single room structure, which is raised
on a platform and is topped by a superstructure, which conforms to the
traditional Buddhist style of architecture. The Mahaparinirvana temple
houses the world famous 6m (19.68 ft) long statue of the reclining
Buddha.
Mahaparinirvana temple (also known as the Nirvana temple) is the main
attraction of Kushinagar. It is a single room structure, which is raised
on a platform and is topped by a superstructure, which conforms to the
traditional Buddhist style of architecture. The Mahaparinirvana temple
houses the world famous 6m (19.68 ft) long statue of the reclining
Buddha.
This
statue was discovered during the excavation of 1876 by British
archaeologists. The statue has been carved out from sandstone and
represents the dying Buddha. The figures carved on the four sides of the
small stone railing surrounding the statue, show them mourning the
death of Lord Buddha. According to an inscription found in Kushinagar,
the statue dates back to the 5th century AD.
statue was discovered during the excavation of 1876 by British
archaeologists. The statue has been carved out from sandstone and
represents the dying Buddha. The figures carved on the four sides of the
small stone railing surrounding the statue, show them mourning the
death of Lord Buddha. According to an inscription found in Kushinagar,
the statue dates back to the 5th century AD.
It
is generally believed that Haribala, a Buddhist monk brought the statue
of the reclining Buddha to Kushinagar, from Mathura during 5th century,
during the period of the Gupta Empire.
is generally believed that Haribala, a Buddhist monk brought the statue
of the reclining Buddha to Kushinagar, from Mathura during 5th century,
during the period of the Gupta Empire.
Nirvana Stupa
The
Nirvana stupa is located behind the Mahaparinirvana temple. British
archaeologists discovered this brick structure during the excavation
carried out in 1876. Subsequent excavations carried out by the
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) unearthed a copper vessel, which
contained the remains of Lord Buddha apart from precious stones, cowries
and a gold coin belonging to the Gupta Empire. The copper vessel bore
the inscription that the ashes of Lord Buddha had been interred here.
Nirvana stupa is located behind the Mahaparinirvana temple. British
archaeologists discovered this brick structure during the excavation
carried out in 1876. Subsequent excavations carried out by the
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) unearthed a copper vessel, which
contained the remains of Lord Buddha apart from precious stones, cowries
and a gold coin belonging to the Gupta Empire. The copper vessel bore
the inscription that the ashes of Lord Buddha had been interred here.
Mathakuar Shrine
The
Mathakuar Shrine is an interesting place to visit in Kushinagar. It is
located near the Nirvana stupa. A statue of Buddha made out of black
stone was found here. The statue shows Buddha in the Bhumi Sparsha mudra
(pose in which Buddha is touching the earth with his fingers). It is
believed that Lord Buddha preached his last sermon here before his
death.
Mathakuar Shrine is an interesting place to visit in Kushinagar. It is
located near the Nirvana stupa. A statue of Buddha made out of black
stone was found here. The statue shows Buddha in the Bhumi Sparsha mudra
(pose in which Buddha is touching the earth with his fingers). It is
believed that Lord Buddha preached his last sermon here before his
death.
Ramabhar Stupa
The
Ramabhar Stupa (also known as the Mukutabandhana stupa) is a 14.9 m (49
ft) tall brick stupa, which is located at a distance of 1 km from the
Mahaparinirvana temple. This stupa is built on the spot where Lord
Buddha was cremated in 483 BC. Ancient Buddhist scriptures refer this
stupa as the Mukutabandhana stupa. It is said that the Malla rulers, who
ruled Kushinagar during the death of Buddha built the Ramabhar stupa.
Ramabhar Stupa (also known as the Mukutabandhana stupa) is a 14.9 m (49
ft) tall brick stupa, which is located at a distance of 1 km from the
Mahaparinirvana temple. This stupa is built on the spot where Lord
Buddha was cremated in 483 BC. Ancient Buddhist scriptures refer this
stupa as the Mukutabandhana stupa. It is said that the Malla rulers, who
ruled Kushinagar during the death of Buddha built the Ramabhar stupa.
Modern Stupas
Kushinagar
has a number of modern stupas and monasteries, which have been built,
by different Buddhist countries. The important shrines worth visiting
are the Chinese stupa and the IndoJapan-Sri Lankan Buddhist Centre.
has a number of modern stupas and monasteries, which have been built,
by different Buddhist countries. The important shrines worth visiting
are the Chinese stupa and the IndoJapan-Sri Lankan Buddhist Centre.
Kushinagar Museum
The
Kushinagar Museum (Archaeological Museum) is located near the
IndoJapan-Sri Lankan Buddhist Centre. The museum has a collection of
artefacts like statues, carved panels etc excavated from various stupas
and monasteries in Kushinagar and places around it.
Kushinagar Museum (Archaeological Museum) is located near the
IndoJapan-Sri Lankan Buddhist Centre. The museum has a collection of
artefacts like statues, carved panels etc excavated from various stupas
and monasteries in Kushinagar and places around it.
Excursion
Gorakhpur
Fifty-one
kilometers off Kushinagar is Gorakhpur, an important city of eastern
Uttar Pradesh. At Gorakhpur is the Rahul Sanskrityayan Museum, which has
an excellent collection of Thanka paintings and relics of the Buddha.
The water sports complex at Ramgarh Tal Planetarium and the Gorakhnath
Temple in the city are also worth a visit.
kilometers off Kushinagar is Gorakhpur, an important city of eastern
Uttar Pradesh. At Gorakhpur is the Rahul Sanskrityayan Museum, which has
an excellent collection of Thanka paintings and relics of the Buddha.
The water sports complex at Ramgarh Tal Planetarium and the Gorakhnath
Temple in the city are also worth a visit.
Kapilavastu (Piprahwa)
Situated
148 km from Kushinagar and is an important Buddhist pilgrimage.
Kapilavastu was the ancient capital of the Sakya clan ruled by Gautama
Buddha’s father.
148 km from Kushinagar and is an important Buddhist pilgrimage.
Kapilavastu was the ancient capital of the Sakya clan ruled by Gautama
Buddha’s father.
Lumbini
Situated
in Nepal at a distance of 122 km from Gorakhpur, Lumbini is the
birthplace of Lord Buddha. There are regular buses to the Nepalese
border, from where the remaining 26 km has to be covered by private
vehicles
in Nepal at a distance of 122 km from Gorakhpur, Lumbini is the
birthplace of Lord Buddha. There are regular buses to the Nepalese
border, from where the remaining 26 km has to be covered by private
vehicles
How to get there
Airport
The nearest airhead is located at Varanasi from where one can take flights to Delhi, Calcutta, Lucknow, and Patna.
Rail
Kushinagar
does not have a railway station. The nearest railway station is at
Gorakhpur (51 km), which is the headquarters of Northeastern Railways
and linked to important destinations. Some important trains to Gorakhpur
are Bombay-Gorakhpur-Bandra Express, New Delhi-Barauni-Vaishali
Express, Cochin-Gorakhpur Express, Shaheed Express, Amarnath Express,
and Kathgodam Express.
does not have a railway station. The nearest railway station is at
Gorakhpur (51 km), which is the headquarters of Northeastern Railways
and linked to important destinations. Some important trains to Gorakhpur
are Bombay-Gorakhpur-Bandra Express, New Delhi-Barauni-Vaishali
Express, Cochin-Gorakhpur Express, Shaheed Express, Amarnath Express,
and Kathgodam Express.
Road
Kushinagar
is well connected to other parts of the state of Uttar Pradesh by bus.
The distances from places around are : Gorakhpur (51 km), Lumbini (173
km), Kapilavastu (148 km), Sravasti (254 km), and Sarnath (266 km), and
Agra (680 km).
is well connected to other parts of the state of Uttar Pradesh by bus.
The distances from places around are : Gorakhpur (51 km), Lumbini (173
km), Kapilavastu (148 km), Sravasti (254 km), and Sarnath (266 km), and
Agra (680 km).
BUDDHIST HEARTLAND
Enlightening Odyssey
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It
was a prediction that set it off. Terrified that his son might one day
renounce the world to become a great seer, King Suddhodhana of the
Shakyas, a small kingdom in the Terai region of Nepal, shielded the
young Prince Siddhartha from the evil of the world by keeping him within
the confines of his palace, in the embrace of material comforts and
loving care. From his very birth in 623 BC, in a garden at Lumbini close
to the Shakya capital of Kapilavastu, portent’s revealed that the young
man’s fate was sealed for higher things than dealing with the earthly
concerns and the business of a king.
was a prediction that set it off. Terrified that his son might one day
renounce the world to become a great seer, King Suddhodhana of the
Shakyas, a small kingdom in the Terai region of Nepal, shielded the
young Prince Siddhartha from the evil of the world by keeping him within
the confines of his palace, in the embrace of material comforts and
loving care. From his very birth in 623 BC, in a garden at Lumbini close
to the Shakya capital of Kapilavastu, portent’s revealed that the young
man’s fate was sealed for higher things than dealing with the earthly
concerns and the business of a king.
It
was chance too that rolled the dice in favour of the spiritual world,
and Prince Siddhartha was a willing pawn when he rejected his regal
life. It was an amazing journey that would transform the deeply troubled
prince into the great Buddha, the Enlightened One, culminating in his
release from the endless cycle of rebirths, at Bodhgaya in Bihar. His
great quest would become the core of an important religious movement.
was chance too that rolled the dice in favour of the spiritual world,
and Prince Siddhartha was a willing pawn when he rejected his regal
life. It was an amazing journey that would transform the deeply troubled
prince into the great Buddha, the Enlightened One, culminating in his
release from the endless cycle of rebirths, at Bodhgaya in Bihar. His
great quest would become the core of an important religious movement.
Buddhism - Charismatic Formula
For
kings and commoners, criminals and courtesans, Buddhism had the power
and strength to transform their lives forever. This is beautifully
illustrated in the legendary commitment to Buddhism of King Ashoka,
after the bloody battle of Kalinga in Orissa. The great king was
enthusiastic in spreading the Buddha’s message of peace and
enlightenment across the length and breadth of his vast empire, reaching
from present day Afghanistan, Pakistan, India and Bangladesh.
kings and commoners, criminals and courtesans, Buddhism had the power
and strength to transform their lives forever. This is beautifully
illustrated in the legendary commitment to Buddhism of King Ashoka,
after the bloody battle of Kalinga in Orissa. The great king was
enthusiastic in spreading the Buddha’s message of peace and
enlightenment across the length and breadth of his vast empire, reaching
from present day Afghanistan, Pakistan, India and Bangladesh.
Buddhism
was to travel from its home in India’s eastern Gangetic region of
Bihar, Bengal and Orissa to encompass Sri Lanka and the countries of
South East Asia, then onto the Himalayan countries of Bhutan, Nepal and
Tibet, even far-flung Central Asia, China and Japan, under the umbrella
of royal patronage and the dedication of its vast community of monks,
teachers and artists.
was to travel from its home in India’s eastern Gangetic region of
Bihar, Bengal and Orissa to encompass Sri Lanka and the countries of
South East Asia, then onto the Himalayan countries of Bhutan, Nepal and
Tibet, even far-flung Central Asia, China and Japan, under the umbrella
of royal patronage and the dedication of its vast community of monks,
teachers and artists.
The
essence of Buddhism is embodied in the concept of the 4 noble truths
and the 3 jewels (Buddha, Dharma, Sangha) via the 8-fold path to
salvation and peace Anticipating his death in his 80th year Buddha urged
his followers, especially his chosen disciples, to continue his work
after his imminent Mahaparnirvana the attaining of nirvana
(enlightenment). As a reminder of his difficult journey and its ultimate
goal, he prevailed upon them to visit the four important places that
were the cornerstones of his great journey - Lumbini, Bodhgaya, Sarnath,
and Kushinagar.
essence of Buddhism is embodied in the concept of the 4 noble truths
and the 3 jewels (Buddha, Dharma, Sangha) via the 8-fold path to
salvation and peace Anticipating his death in his 80th year Buddha urged
his followers, especially his chosen disciples, to continue his work
after his imminent Mahaparnirvana the attaining of nirvana
(enlightenment). As a reminder of his difficult journey and its ultimate
goal, he prevailed upon them to visit the four important places that
were the cornerstones of his great journey - Lumbini, Bodhgaya, Sarnath,
and Kushinagar.
The
spread of Buddhism down the centuries was to leave in its wake a wealth
of symbolic structures, including sculpted caves, stupas (relic
shrines), chaityas (prayer halls) viharas (monasteries), mahaviharas
(universities) and numerous art forms and religious literature. The
arrival of Guru Padamasambhava, in the 8th century, was a major impetus
in the spread of Buddhism in the Himalayan region.
spread of Buddhism down the centuries was to leave in its wake a wealth
of symbolic structures, including sculpted caves, stupas (relic
shrines), chaityas (prayer halls) viharas (monasteries), mahaviharas
(universities) and numerous art forms and religious literature. The
arrival of Guru Padamasambhava, in the 8th century, was a major impetus
in the spread of Buddhism in the Himalayan region.
Today,
both pilgrims and tourists can enjoy the special appeal of these myriad
experiences, in the Buddhist Heartland of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India,
and Nepal. From the moment of his birth, his teachings, spiritual
struggle, attainment of enlightenment, great meditations, and message of
peace and non-violence, are as relevant to our life and times as it was
in his day.
both pilgrims and tourists can enjoy the special appeal of these myriad
experiences, in the Buddhist Heartland of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India,
and Nepal. From the moment of his birth, his teachings, spiritual
struggle, attainment of enlightenment, great meditations, and message of
peace and non-violence, are as relevant to our life and times as it was
in his day.
Buddhism - Jewels of the Lotus
Almost
a hundred years later there emerged various schools of Buddhist thought
evolving somewhat from the Buddha’s original precepts. The most
prominent amongst these were the Mahayana School, the Theravada School
(based on the old Hinayana School) which flourished in Sri Lanka and
established itself quite quickly in many South East Asian countries, and
the Vajrayana School with its Tantric features, which spread to the
Himalayan regions of Bhutan, Nepal and Tibet.
a hundred years later there emerged various schools of Buddhist thought
evolving somewhat from the Buddha’s original precepts. The most
prominent amongst these were the Mahayana School, the Theravada School
(based on the old Hinayana School) which flourished in Sri Lanka and
established itself quite quickly in many South East Asian countries, and
the Vajrayana School with its Tantric features, which spread to the
Himalayan regions of Bhutan, Nepal and Tibet.
Lumbini,
Sarnath, Bodhgaya and Kushinagar are the primary pilgrimage places
associated with the life and teachings of the Lord Buddha. There are
numerous other sites where the Buddha and the saints that followed
travelled during his life after his transformation, which are held in
deep veneration. Visitors can travel through this Buddhist Heartland
today, to savour the splendid beauty and great appeal of Buddhism.
Sarnath, Bodhgaya and Kushinagar are the primary pilgrimage places
associated with the life and teachings of the Lord Buddha. There are
numerous other sites where the Buddha and the saints that followed
travelled during his life after his transformation, which are held in
deep veneration. Visitors can travel through this Buddhist Heartland
today, to savour the splendid beauty and great appeal of Buddhism.
FOOTSTEPS OF LORD BUDDHA
The
greatest impetus to Buddha’s teachings came from the Indian King Ashoka
who went on a great pilgrimage visiting the important sites that are
directly associated with his life, in the Footsteps of Lord Buddha.
Primary amongst these holy places are Lumbini in Nepal, and Bodhgaya,
Sarnath and Kushinagar in India. The international Buddhist community
has been active in supporting these important religious centres. There
are other places of lesser significance on the Footsteps of Lord Buddha
visitor circuit associated closely with Buddha’s life. Amongst these are
Buddha’s monsoon retreats of Vaishali, Rajgir and Sravastii in India,
and his early home at Tilaurakot in Kapilavastu Nepal.
greatest impetus to Buddha’s teachings came from the Indian King Ashoka
who went on a great pilgrimage visiting the important sites that are
directly associated with his life, in the Footsteps of Lord Buddha.
Primary amongst these holy places are Lumbini in Nepal, and Bodhgaya,
Sarnath and Kushinagar in India. The international Buddhist community
has been active in supporting these important religious centres. There
are other places of lesser significance on the Footsteps of Lord Buddha
visitor circuit associated closely with Buddha’s life. Amongst these are
Buddha’s monsoon retreats of Vaishali, Rajgir and Sravastii in India,
and his early home at Tilaurakot in Kapilavastu Nepal.
Primary Patronage
Lumbini.
Lumbini in southern Nepal is where Queen Mayadevi gave birth to Prince
Siddhartha. It is just a short distance from the Shakya capital of
Kapilavastu. Pilgrimages focus on the sacred garden which contains the
site of the birth, the Mayadevi temple, the Pashkarni pond and the
Ashoka pillar. Designed by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange, the sacred
garden of Lumbini is a World Heritage Site with monasteries from many
Buddhist nations. It is recognised as a supreme pilgrimage site and
symbol of world peace.
Lumbini in southern Nepal is where Queen Mayadevi gave birth to Prince
Siddhartha. It is just a short distance from the Shakya capital of
Kapilavastu. Pilgrimages focus on the sacred garden which contains the
site of the birth, the Mayadevi temple, the Pashkarni pond and the
Ashoka pillar. Designed by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange, the sacred
garden of Lumbini is a World Heritage Site with monasteries from many
Buddhist nations. It is recognised as a supreme pilgrimage site and
symbol of world peace.
Bodhgaya.
It was in Bodhgaya in Bihar, India that Prince Siddhartha found
Enlightenment (nirvana) under the bodhi tree after meditating for 49
days. No longer a bodhisattva (mentor), he became Lord Buddha, the
Enlightened One.
It was in Bodhgaya in Bihar, India that Prince Siddhartha found
Enlightenment (nirvana) under the bodhi tree after meditating for 49
days. No longer a bodhisattva (mentor), he became Lord Buddha, the
Enlightened One.
Primary
points of homage are the Mahabodhi Temple, the Vajrasan throne donated
by King Ashoka, the holy Bodhi Tree, the Animeshlochana chaitya, the
Ratnachankramana, the Ratnagaraha, the Ajapala Nigrodha Tree, the
Muchhalinda Lake and the Rajyatna Tree. The spiritual home of all
Buddhists, devotees from many Buddhist countries have built temples
around the complex in their characteristic architectural styles.
Bodhgaya today is a vibrant and inspiring tourist attraction.
points of homage are the Mahabodhi Temple, the Vajrasan throne donated
by King Ashoka, the holy Bodhi Tree, the Animeshlochana chaitya, the
Ratnachankramana, the Ratnagaraha, the Ajapala Nigrodha Tree, the
Muchhalinda Lake and the Rajyatna Tree. The spiritual home of all
Buddhists, devotees from many Buddhist countries have built temples
around the complex in their characteristic architectural styles.
Bodhgaya today is a vibrant and inspiring tourist attraction.
Sarnath.
Buddha gave his first sermon at Sarnath after achieving enlightenment,
about 10 km from the ancient holy city of Varanasi. The sermon, setting
in motion the wheel of the teaching (dharamchakrapravartna) revealed to
his followers the 4 noble truths, the concept of the 3 jewels of Buddha,
Dharma and Sangha via the 8 fold path, for inner peace and
enlightenment. It was here that the Buddha established his first
disciples (sangha) to promote his new doctrine. The splendid Dhamekha
Stupa at Sarnath was originally erected by King Ashoka, as was the
famous lion capital pillar, now the proud symbol of India.
Buddha gave his first sermon at Sarnath after achieving enlightenment,
about 10 km from the ancient holy city of Varanasi. The sermon, setting
in motion the wheel of the teaching (dharamchakrapravartna) revealed to
his followers the 4 noble truths, the concept of the 3 jewels of Buddha,
Dharma and Sangha via the 8 fold path, for inner peace and
enlightenment. It was here that the Buddha established his first
disciples (sangha) to promote his new doctrine. The splendid Dhamekha
Stupa at Sarnath was originally erected by King Ashoka, as was the
famous lion capital pillar, now the proud symbol of India.
Kushinagar.
At Kushinagar close to Gorakhpur in eastern Uttar Pradesh, India en
route to Kapilavastu, Lord Buddha fell ill and left this world in 543
BC. His mortal remains were preserved in eight commemorative chortens,
and then further distributed by King Ashoka into 84,000 stupas across
his kingdom and beyond. Important places to see here are the
Mukatanabandhana stupa and the Gupta period reclining Buddha statue in
red sandstone.
At Kushinagar close to Gorakhpur in eastern Uttar Pradesh, India en
route to Kapilavastu, Lord Buddha fell ill and left this world in 543
BC. His mortal remains were preserved in eight commemorative chortens,
and then further distributed by King Ashoka into 84,000 stupas across
his kingdom and beyond. Important places to see here are the
Mukatanabandhana stupa and the Gupta period reclining Buddha statue in
red sandstone.
Mobilising Mantras & Sutras
The
Buddha preached his last sermon before his death at Vaishali in Bihar,
60 km away from its capital Patna. It was here that he told his disciple
Ananda about his imminent demise. The Second Buddhist Council was held
in Vaishala about 110 years later.
Buddha preached his last sermon before his death at Vaishali in Bihar,
60 km away from its capital Patna. It was here that he told his disciple
Ananda about his imminent demise. The Second Buddhist Council was held
in Vaishala about 110 years later.
About
70 km from Bodhgaya, Rajgir was Buddha’s monsoon retreat for 12 years
whilst he spread his doctrine. It was at the holy Griddhikuta Hill that
he expounded the precepts of his Lotus Sutra and the Perfection of
Wisdom Sutra. The Saptaparni Caves set on Vaibhar Hill were the venue of
the First Buddhist Council, held to compile the teachings of the Buddha
in its authentic form, after his death. The world-renowned university
of Nalanda is another important landmark site.
70 km from Bodhgaya, Rajgir was Buddha’s monsoon retreat for 12 years
whilst he spread his doctrine. It was at the holy Griddhikuta Hill that
he expounded the precepts of his Lotus Sutra and the Perfection of
Wisdom Sutra. The Saptaparni Caves set on Vaibhar Hill were the venue of
the First Buddhist Council, held to compile the teachings of the Buddha
in its authentic form, after his death. The world-renowned university
of Nalanda is another important landmark site.
About
150 km from the city of Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh, Shravasti was
Buddha’s favourite rainy season retreat where he Buddha performed his
first miracle.
150 km from the city of Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh, Shravasti was
Buddha’s favourite rainy season retreat where he Buddha performed his
first miracle.
The Ties That Bind
Around
Lumbini in Nepal are seven other pilgrimage sites. The first thirty
years of Buddha’s life were spent at Tilaurakot in Kapilavastu in his
father’s home, 27 km west of Lumbini in Nepal. The well-preserved city
foundations are evocative of former times, and the casket recovered from
the original stupa is preserved in the nearby museum. About 34 km
northeast of Lumbini is Devdaha whose Koliya people are considered to be
the maternal tribesmen of the Buddha. The forest of Sagarhawa lies
northwest of Niglihawa. Another important site is the stupa at Kudan, 5
km from Tilaurakot, where Buddha’s father King Suddhodhana met him after
his enlightenment.
Lumbini in Nepal are seven other pilgrimage sites. The first thirty
years of Buddha’s life were spent at Tilaurakot in Kapilavastu in his
father’s home, 27 km west of Lumbini in Nepal. The well-preserved city
foundations are evocative of former times, and the casket recovered from
the original stupa is preserved in the nearby museum. About 34 km
northeast of Lumbini is Devdaha whose Koliya people are considered to be
the maternal tribesmen of the Buddha. The forest of Sagarhawa lies
northwest of Niglihawa. Another important site is the stupa at Kudan, 5
km from Tilaurakot, where Buddha’s father King Suddhodhana met him after
his enlightenment.
LIVING BUDDHISM
The
trans-Himalayan regions of Bhutan, India, and Nepal are strongly rooted
in the Buddhist faith. In Dharamsala, in the Kangra Valley, lives his
Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, spiritual leader of all Tibetan Buddhists.
Visitors can enjoy Living Buddhism experiences throughout the region,
whether as a student of Buddhism, meditation and yoga, or as a layperson
attracted by the vibrant culture, people and festivals.
trans-Himalayan regions of Bhutan, India, and Nepal are strongly rooted
in the Buddhist faith. In Dharamsala, in the Kangra Valley, lives his
Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, spiritual leader of all Tibetan Buddhists.
Visitors can enjoy Living Buddhism experiences throughout the region,
whether as a student of Buddhism, meditation and yoga, or as a layperson
attracted by the vibrant culture, people and festivals.
Eastern Himalayas-The Lotus Blooms Still
Kathmandu
Valley is an important Buddhist pilgrimage circuit with 15 major sites.
It is a living center of Buddhist learning with many new monasteries
and schools that attract funding and visitors from all over the world.
The most important Living Buddhism sites are Swayambhunath and Bodhnath
stupas, both with strong links to Tibet. Protected as World Heritage
Sites, they are the most revered spiritual sites in the country,
attracting thousands of pilgrims. Many of the indigenous Newar people of
Kathmandu practice a unique form of Buddhism, unrelated to Tibet.
Valley is an important Buddhist pilgrimage circuit with 15 major sites.
It is a living center of Buddhist learning with many new monasteries
and schools that attract funding and visitors from all over the world.
The most important Living Buddhism sites are Swayambhunath and Bodhnath
stupas, both with strong links to Tibet. Protected as World Heritage
Sites, they are the most revered spiritual sites in the country,
attracting thousands of pilgrims. Many of the indigenous Newar people of
Kathmandu practice a unique form of Buddhism, unrelated to Tibet.
In
the northern regions of Nepal, Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism continues to
flourish and there are many monasteries and sacred sites. Many of these
are in Mustang and Dolpa districts. The important monasteries
Thyangboche, Thame, Chiwong and Thupten Choeling are in the Everest
region of Solu Khumbu.
the northern regions of Nepal, Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism continues to
flourish and there are many monasteries and sacred sites. Many of these
are in Mustang and Dolpa districts. The important monasteries
Thyangboche, Thame, Chiwong and Thupten Choeling are in the Everest
region of Solu Khumbu.
In
the Buddhist kingdom of Bhutan, HM the King is considered equal in
status to the religious leader, the Jekhenpo. The depth and vibrancy of
the Buddhist faith is reflected in everyday life. Devotees revere Guru
Padmasambhava as the second Buddha. Bhutan’s monastery fortresses
(dzongs) are an integral feature of governance, and the repository of
precious treasures of ancient literature, scriptures and art. The great
dzongs of Thimphu, Paro, Punakha and Wangdi Phodrang, amongst many
others, offer a fabulous journey for both pilgrim and tourist to explore
Bhutan’s colourful history and spiritual splendour. An added temptation
for the visitor is the fabulous repertoire of cultural activities
associated with the Kingdom’s renowned festivals (tsechus).
the Buddhist kingdom of Bhutan, HM the King is considered equal in
status to the religious leader, the Jekhenpo. The depth and vibrancy of
the Buddhist faith is reflected in everyday life. Devotees revere Guru
Padmasambhava as the second Buddha. Bhutan’s monastery fortresses
(dzongs) are an integral feature of governance, and the repository of
precious treasures of ancient literature, scriptures and art. The great
dzongs of Thimphu, Paro, Punakha and Wangdi Phodrang, amongst many
others, offer a fabulous journey for both pilgrim and tourist to explore
Bhutan’s colourful history and spiritual splendour. An added temptation
for the visitor is the fabulous repertoire of cultural activities
associated with the Kingdom’s renowned festivals (tsechus).
A
short distance from Paro is the renovated Taktsang monastery, the
venerated location of Guru Rimpoche’s (Padmasambhava) deep meditation
before subduing evil demons. Kyichu Lakhang in Paro and Jambay Lakhang
in Bhumtang are amongst Bhutan’s most important and oldest Buddhist
sites. The famous tsechu festivities are marked by prayers and religious
dances, colourful costumes, morality tales, and invocations of
protection against evil forces. Dungtse Lakhang is reputed for its
fabulous collection of religious paintings .The spectacular Punakha
dzong is the winter seat of the monkhood, and houses numerous sacred
artifacts and important temples.
short distance from Paro is the renovated Taktsang monastery, the
venerated location of Guru Rimpoche’s (Padmasambhava) deep meditation
before subduing evil demons. Kyichu Lakhang in Paro and Jambay Lakhang
in Bhumtang are amongst Bhutan’s most important and oldest Buddhist
sites. The famous tsechu festivities are marked by prayers and religious
dances, colourful costumes, morality tales, and invocations of
protection against evil forces. Dungtse Lakhang is reputed for its
fabulous collection of religious paintings .The spectacular Punakha
dzong is the winter seat of the monkhood, and houses numerous sacred
artifacts and important temples.
Living
Buddhism flourishes in northern India, home of the Dalai Lama. Set
amongst the splendid heights of the Eastern Himalayas in Arunachal
Pradesh is the remote Tawang Monastery. Amongst the native inhabitants,
the Monpas and the Sherdupkens people keep alive the Buddhist faith from
ancient times. This 17th century monastery is the largest of its kind
in India and the second largest in Asia. The hill town of Bomdila offers
local handicrafts and religious artifacts, and ancient monasteries
Buddhism flourishes in northern India, home of the Dalai Lama. Set
amongst the splendid heights of the Eastern Himalayas in Arunachal
Pradesh is the remote Tawang Monastery. Amongst the native inhabitants,
the Monpas and the Sherdupkens people keep alive the Buddhist faith from
ancient times. This 17th century monastery is the largest of its kind
in India and the second largest in Asia. The hill town of Bomdila offers
local handicrafts and religious artifacts, and ancient monasteries
Other
North East states also have Buddhist attractions. In the shadow of Mt
Khangchendzonga, Buddhism flourishes in the sacred landscape of Sikkim
which is dotted with 107 monasteries and many sacred stupas. Amongst the
most important are Rumtek, the home of the Kagyupa sect, Pemayangtse,
Tashding and Enchey. The monastery at Chungtang marks the footprint of
Guru Padamasambhava when he rested en route to Tibet. Recently, the
world’s tallest statue of Guru Rinpoche has been erected at Namchi. The
people celebrate their faith during the chaam (masked) dances at the
great festivals.
North East states also have Buddhist attractions. In the shadow of Mt
Khangchendzonga, Buddhism flourishes in the sacred landscape of Sikkim
which is dotted with 107 monasteries and many sacred stupas. Amongst the
most important are Rumtek, the home of the Kagyupa sect, Pemayangtse,
Tashding and Enchey. The monastery at Chungtang marks the footprint of
Guru Padamasambhava when he rested en route to Tibet. Recently, the
world’s tallest statue of Guru Rinpoche has been erected at Namchi. The
people celebrate their faith during the chaam (masked) dances at the
great festivals.
Surviving Buddhist Enclaves
Bangladesh
is now largely Muslim, but the country has important pockets of
Buddhist communities that date back to the 7th century, especially in
the region of Chittagong, the Chittagong Hill Tracts, Cox’s Bazaar,
Noakhali and Barisal. There are at least 50 Buddhist settlements
surviving from the 8-12th century in the Mainamati-Lalmai range at
Tipera, Laksham and Comilla
is now largely Muslim, but the country has important pockets of
Buddhist communities that date back to the 7th century, especially in
the region of Chittagong, the Chittagong Hill Tracts, Cox’s Bazaar,
Noakhali and Barisal. There are at least 50 Buddhist settlements
surviving from the 8-12th century in the Mainamati-Lalmai range at
Tipera, Laksham and Comilla
ART AND ARCHAEOLOGY
The
great journey of Buddhism throughout its 2,500-year history has
manifested itself in a profusion of creative energy in its art,
archaeology and architecture. These include beautifully painted holy
caves, statues and sculpted heads, bas reliefs, mandalas, thangkas
(religious paintings) and frescos, stupas and chortens, fine chaityas,
viharas, mahaviharas and temples that offer the traveller cross-border
cultural pickings that are as enriching as they are moving.
great journey of Buddhism throughout its 2,500-year history has
manifested itself in a profusion of creative energy in its art,
archaeology and architecture. These include beautifully painted holy
caves, statues and sculpted heads, bas reliefs, mandalas, thangkas
(religious paintings) and frescos, stupas and chortens, fine chaityas,
viharas, mahaviharas and temples that offer the traveller cross-border
cultural pickings that are as enriching as they are moving.
The
earliest form of Buddhism had no iconoclastic roots. Buddha himself was
regarded as a teacher not a God. When Buddha attained nirvana he was
represented only in the form of symbols such as the lotus, the bo
(peepul) tree, and the wheel.
earliest form of Buddhism had no iconoclastic roots. Buddha himself was
regarded as a teacher not a God. When Buddha attained nirvana he was
represented only in the form of symbols such as the lotus, the bo
(peepul) tree, and the wheel.
Buddha
as an icon emerged through the influence of the Mahayana School of
Buddhism, and the mystical and highly symbolic Tantric form of the
Vajrayana School. Vajrayana culture flourished at Bodhgaya, Nalanda and
Vikramshila around the 8-9 BC. Buddhist Nalanda enjoyed the patronage of
several dynasties of kings but was annihilated by the Turks in the 12th
century. Tantric ritual and mysticism relied heavily on sutras and
tantras - secret practices linked with the mandala (magical diagram). It
saw the inclusion of occult concepts woven intricately into the rapidly
expanding pantheon of Buddha images of gods and goddesses.
as an icon emerged through the influence of the Mahayana School of
Buddhism, and the mystical and highly symbolic Tantric form of the
Vajrayana School. Vajrayana culture flourished at Bodhgaya, Nalanda and
Vikramshila around the 8-9 BC. Buddhist Nalanda enjoyed the patronage of
several dynasties of kings but was annihilated by the Turks in the 12th
century. Tantric ritual and mysticism relied heavily on sutras and
tantras - secret practices linked with the mandala (magical diagram). It
saw the inclusion of occult concepts woven intricately into the rapidly
expanding pantheon of Buddha images of gods and goddesses.
The Dharma and the Kings of old Bengal
Bangladesh
enjoyed the fruits of early Buddhist thought and art. Buddhism received
enormous support during the Pala, Chandra and Deva rulers, devout
Buddhists, who were responsible for erecting a cavalcade of
commemorative monuments. Amongst them was the important university of
Paharpur, now archaeological remains about 300 km from Dhaka. Along with
Nalanda University in Bihar, India it was an important centre of
Buddhist teaching. Other important archeological sites in Bangladesh are
at Mahastangar, Comila, Mainamati, and Ramu.
enjoyed the fruits of early Buddhist thought and art. Buddhism received
enormous support during the Pala, Chandra and Deva rulers, devout
Buddhists, who were responsible for erecting a cavalcade of
commemorative monuments. Amongst them was the important university of
Paharpur, now archaeological remains about 300 km from Dhaka. Along with
Nalanda University in Bihar, India it was an important centre of
Buddhist teaching. Other important archeological sites in Bangladesh are
at Mahastangar, Comila, Mainamati, and Ramu.
Pillars, Sculpted Caves and the Pledge of a King
The
earliest form of Buddhist architecture is visible in the sculpted
caves, monastic retreats that were in effect temples of great
spirituality. The caves at Udaygiri, Ratnagiri and Lalitagiri in Orissa
and the Barabar caves in Bihar are an excellent example of how the art
form developed. At Dhauli, the site of the great battle of Kalinga
fought by King Ashoka, 8 km from Bhubaneswar, stands Ashoka’s rock edict
revealing his pledge to become a Buddhist.
earliest form of Buddhist architecture is visible in the sculpted
caves, monastic retreats that were in effect temples of great
spirituality. The caves at Udaygiri, Ratnagiri and Lalitagiri in Orissa
and the Barabar caves in Bihar are an excellent example of how the art
form developed. At Dhauli, the site of the great battle of Kalinga
fought by King Ashoka, 8 km from Bhubaneswar, stands Ashoka’s rock edict
revealing his pledge to become a Buddhist.
Stupas, Chortens, Chaityas, Viharas and Dzongs
The
splendour of the stupas at Sarnath, Bodhgaya, Bodhnath, Nalanda and
other important Buddhist sites are an evocative message of Buddha’s
teachings. The Dhamekha stupa at Sarnath is a cylindrical structure
dating to the golden age of the Guptas (320 AD). It features the typical
floral design on stone of Gupta workmanship. Nepal’s Swayambhunath
features traditional Nepalese architectural design with its tall steeple
mounting the dome, representing the 13 Buddhist heavens.
splendour of the stupas at Sarnath, Bodhgaya, Bodhnath, Nalanda and
other important Buddhist sites are an evocative message of Buddha’s
teachings. The Dhamekha stupa at Sarnath is a cylindrical structure
dating to the golden age of the Guptas (320 AD). It features the typical
floral design on stone of Gupta workmanship. Nepal’s Swayambhunath
features traditional Nepalese architectural design with its tall steeple
mounting the dome, representing the 13 Buddhist heavens.
Chortens
and viharas, stupas in miniature, were originally meant to preserve the
relics of the Buddha or great Buddhist teachers. Excellent examples of
the early viharas were those at Vaishali, Rajgir and Shravasti. Some of
the most powerful mahaviharas were Nalanda and Vikramshila in Bihar,
India and Paharpur in Bangladesh.
and viharas, stupas in miniature, were originally meant to preserve the
relics of the Buddha or great Buddhist teachers. Excellent examples of
the early viharas were those at Vaishali, Rajgir and Shravasti. Some of
the most powerful mahaviharas were Nalanda and Vikramshila in Bihar,
India and Paharpur in Bangladesh.
In
Bhutan the great dzongs were ideal for keeping precious Buddhist
treasures and also as monastic retreats thanks to their isolation and
invincibility. These imposing structures with their tapering walls,
courtyards and galleries have been created with traditional designs
handed down verbally from generation to generation, No nails mar their
creation.
Bhutan the great dzongs were ideal for keeping precious Buddhist
treasures and also as monastic retreats thanks to their isolation and
invincibility. These imposing structures with their tapering walls,
courtyards and galleries have been created with traditional designs
handed down verbally from generation to generation, No nails mar their
creation.
Buddhist Centres of Learning
With
the advent of the Mahayana school, the world-renowned university of
Nalanda became an important centre for Buddhist learning, along with
Pahapur, attracting scholars from around the known world. Nalanda
enjoyed the patronage of several dynasties of kings but was annihilated
by the Turks in the 12th century. It’s an amazing experience walking
across the vast grounds of the ruins with its great stupa and other
monastic structures.
the advent of the Mahayana school, the world-renowned university of
Nalanda became an important centre for Buddhist learning, along with
Pahapur, attracting scholars from around the known world. Nalanda
enjoyed the patronage of several dynasties of kings but was annihilated
by the Turks in the 12th century. It’s an amazing experience walking
across the vast grounds of the ruins with its great stupa and other
monastic structures.
Sculptures & Paintings - Messengers of the Buddha
The
first images of Buddha were formed at Gandhara and show decidedly
Hellinistic features (defined by drapery and hairstyle) due to the trade
and cultural links with Mediterranean Europe at the time. With the
emergence of the Mathura school, close to Agra, the features of the
Buddha became more indigenous, inspired by the traditional yakshis and
yakshas sculptural forms. In Bhutan, and Nepal the elements of the
highly symbolic Vajrayana Buddhist style of iconography, so popular in
the 10th-11th century, were however discontinued around the 14th century
in exchange for a less complex range of artistic vision but which still
retained its vibrancy and colourful splendour.
first images of Buddha were formed at Gandhara and show decidedly
Hellinistic features (defined by drapery and hairstyle) due to the trade
and cultural links with Mediterranean Europe at the time. With the
emergence of the Mathura school, close to Agra, the features of the
Buddha became more indigenous, inspired by the traditional yakshis and
yakshas sculptural forms. In Bhutan, and Nepal the elements of the
highly symbolic Vajrayana Buddhist style of iconography, so popular in
the 10th-11th century, were however discontinued around the 14th century
in exchange for a less complex range of artistic vision but which still
retained its vibrancy and colourful splendour.
The
massive Mahasthangarh archeological remains (240 km from Dhaka) throw
light on the development of Buddhist art and architectural leanings in
Bangladesh. This fortified city of the 3rd century BC, extending over an
8 km radius, is the earliest documented urban civilization of
Bangladesh. Within easy reach are the Buddhist ruins of Govind Bhita,
Gokul Medh Stupa and the Vasu Vihara monastery. The greatest collection
of early Pala sculptures have been found in the Paharpur monastic
complex at the central temple of the renowned Somapura Mahavihara.
massive Mahasthangarh archeological remains (240 km from Dhaka) throw
light on the development of Buddhist art and architectural leanings in
Bangladesh. This fortified city of the 3rd century BC, extending over an
8 km radius, is the earliest documented urban civilization of
Bangladesh. Within easy reach are the Buddhist ruins of Govind Bhita,
Gokul Medh Stupa and the Vasu Vihara monastery. The greatest collection
of early Pala sculptures have been found in the Paharpur monastic
complex at the central temple of the renowned Somapura Mahavihara.
At
the tomb of Saint Shah Sultan Mahi Swar Balkhi, were discovered 40
bronze statues representing Buddhist deities, and terracotta plaques
with scenes from the Ramayana. The Mainamati Museum houses an extensive
range of finds from these Buddhist sites. The Salban Vihara in the
Mainamati-Lalmai hills has a complex of 115 cells around a central
courtyard with its cruciform temple facing the gateway complex,
resembles the Paharpur monastery. Kotila Mura houses three stupas
representing the holy Trinity of Buddhism - the Buddha, Dharma and
Sangha. From Rupban Mura was recovered an early standing Buddha in
abhaya mudra.
the tomb of Saint Shah Sultan Mahi Swar Balkhi, were discovered 40
bronze statues representing Buddhist deities, and terracotta plaques
with scenes from the Ramayana. The Mainamati Museum houses an extensive
range of finds from these Buddhist sites. The Salban Vihara in the
Mainamati-Lalmai hills has a complex of 115 cells around a central
courtyard with its cruciform temple facing the gateway complex,
resembles the Paharpur monastery. Kotila Mura houses three stupas
representing the holy Trinity of Buddhism - the Buddha, Dharma and
Sangha. From Rupban Mura was recovered an early standing Buddha in
abhaya mudra.
The
yellow-bronze statuary of Bhutan reflects influences in bronze-casting
from the craftsman who settled here from the eastern Tibetan province of
Kham, in the 16th century. Bhutanese painters are still sought after to
decorate religious buildings all over the region.
yellow-bronze statuary of Bhutan reflects influences in bronze-casting
from the craftsman who settled here from the eastern Tibetan province of
Kham, in the 16th century. Bhutanese painters are still sought after to
decorate religious buildings all over the region.
The
splendid innovation in the use of colour and expressive elements of
Buddhist art down the ages is amply recorded in the fabulous thangkas or
religious paintings of Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet and the trans-Himalayan
regions of India. Objects of veneration and an aid to meditation,
thangkas are traditional scroll paintings on cotton cloth with vegetable
and precious mineral dyes. Buddhas, Boddhisatvas, Taras and numerous
estoteric subjects reflect the artist’s vision of his Buddhist world.
Embellishments with the lotus motif and themes from the Jataka Tales
(lives of the Buddha) are a recurring form of imagery and inspiration
for paintings.
splendid innovation in the use of colour and expressive elements of
Buddhist art down the ages is amply recorded in the fabulous thangkas or
religious paintings of Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet and the trans-Himalayan
regions of India. Objects of veneration and an aid to meditation,
thangkas are traditional scroll paintings on cotton cloth with vegetable
and precious mineral dyes. Buddhas, Boddhisatvas, Taras and numerous
estoteric subjects reflect the artist’s vision of his Buddhist world.
Embellishments with the lotus motif and themes from the Jataka Tales
(lives of the Buddha) are a recurring form of imagery and inspiration
for paintings.
The
fantastic range of Buddhist art and archaeology in Bangladesh, Bhutan,
India and Nepal, carries the visitor on a splendid journey that marks
some of the most evocative and dynamic aspects of the Buddhist faith.
Time and tide have worked upon the measures of the emerging artistic
trends, but at the core of it remain the Buddha’s basic tenets - of
self-discipline and balance as a means to the ultimate goal of the human
being - the release from the endless cycle of rebirth-pain and
suffering and finding the great peace.
fantastic range of Buddhist art and archaeology in Bangladesh, Bhutan,
India and Nepal, carries the visitor on a splendid journey that marks
some of the most evocative and dynamic aspects of the Buddhist faith.
Time and tide have worked upon the measures of the emerging artistic
trends, but at the core of it remain the Buddha’s basic tenets - of
self-discipline and balance as a means to the ultimate goal of the human
being - the release from the endless cycle of rebirth-pain and
suffering and finding the great peace.
Giant Face-lift of World’s Tallest Buddha Statue
2001.04.18 16:25:03
CHENGDU, April 17 (Xinhuanet) – Looking through the cobweb-shaped
platforms wrapped around the head and chest of a 71 meter-tall seated
Buddha statue, the backs of repair experts’ are seen while they are
busy painting dark-red clay, which will be the new lipstick on the
Buddha’s huge mouth.
Like a slow motion, another expert with a safety rope is sent down
in mid-air from the base of the 8 meter-long middle finger of the
statue’s left hand to the statue’s 8.5 meter-high flat instep of the
left foot, where 100 people could sit.
This is just one scene of an ongoing facelift project on the 1, 280
year-old Buddha statue in Leshan, a city in southwest China’s Sichuan
Province.
Carving of the Buddha started in 713 A.D. and was completed in 803
A.D., in the prosperous period of the Tang Dynasty (618-907).
The statue was included in the World Cultural Heritage List under
the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
(UNESCO) in 1996.
The Buddha statue, which sits on a cliff overlooking the merging of
the three rivers: Minjiang, Qingyijiang and Daduhe. The statue is 71
meters from top to bottom and 28 meters from left to right. It is 18
meters higher than the standing Buddha statue at Bamian Valley,
Afghanistan, once thought to be the highest of its kind in the world.
Over the past 1,000 years, erosion has become a major threat to the
statue. Owning to damage by natural environment changes and human
activities, six major repairs on the giant Buddha statue have been
carried out since ancient times.
Before the largest repair project, which was initiated early this
month, Xinhua reporters visited the famous sitting Maitreya, which
looked in need of immediate repair and attention.
”Some coiled bobs on the head of the statue fell down, weed coated
on its surface rocks, and the face was darkened,” the reporters
recalled.
But the reporters visited it again this week and it looks very shiny and new after two weeks of repair.
The 1,000 color-faded bobs on the Buddha’s head have been painted
black, the drainage system has been dredged and the big crack going
from the right eye to the back of its head has been fixed.
”The crack use to cause the Buddha to burst into tears on rainy
days,” said Zeng Zhiliang, an engineer of ancient architecture, who
climbed up onto the 10-story-high statue everyday to conduct repair
work.
When the reporters followed Zeng to have a closer look and touch the
Buddha’s cheek, they could feel the smoothness and brightness of the
repaired surface of its’ face.
The black spots on the face of the Buddha, caused by erosion have disappeared after a thorough cleaning,” Zeng said.
At the Buddha’s neck, which 60 meters high from the base of the
statue, an expert is using a small hammer to carefully knock
mantlerocks, rocks which have become loose on the statue due to
erosion, away from the statue surface. With a safety rope, the expert
is crouching in the narrow space of the platform constructed around the
statue.
After knocking it free, he has to use a brush and water to wash the
spot and piece it up with repair material. To achieve the perfect
result, this procedure has to be repeated three or four times.
According to Zeng, the experts also take photos on the mantlerocks
in order to set up archives on the statue’s original form and the
repair work done.
The most difficult parts in the face-lift are the giant facial
features, Zeng said, for example, the Buddha’s nose is the combined
size of several persons.
”If there is no accurate technique and skills, harmonious proportionment can be hardly realized,” he told the reporters.
Tourists to the statue are also interested in asking questions about the repair work.
”How do you mix the face color of the Buddha,” asked Ney Johnn, a German tourist.
Zeng’s answer is that the statue was carved out of red gritstone and covered by skin-color clay.
”Why don’t you use chemical paint as my country did on some historical relics?” Johnn said.
Natural repair material, in the same color of the statue, is being
used, Zeng said, adding that it is a mixture of rocks, charcoal, hemp
and lime.
This is in accordance with China’s law on cultural relics that chemical materials or cement are banned for repairing relics.
Chinese leaders have paid close attention to the repair work. The
repair plan was made by the State Administration of Cultural Heritage
and seven universities and related cultural relics protection research
institutes across China.
The face-lift project has aroused great attention at home and
overseas. The UNESCO has sent experts to the repair site, the World
Bank has provided considerable loans and foreign media coverage with
Time magazine and New York Times being contacted to cover the event.
A massive petition signing has been staged here to call for efforts
to be made to protect the statue. So far, more than 10,000 tourists
signed their names on a scroll of silk 71 meters long.
The Buddha statue management center said the drive has received a
donation of over 300,000 yuan (about 36,000 US dollars) from people
from all walks of life.
The first phase of the repair work will be completed by the end of
April. An additional investment of 250 million yuan (about 30 million
US dollars) will be used for the further repair on the statue as well
as a number of projects to build roads and highways and control
pollution in the area.
Experts suggested that the statue should be inspected and repaired
every five years after this project is completed. Enditem
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