Cradle of Buddhism - Bodhgaya

Much of the Bodhgaya town history is known from inscriptions on stone railing of Mahabodhi temple and accounts from pilgrims and travelers. Excavation since 19th century had revealed many interesting examples of arts and architecture, a model of the original temple unearthed in the excavation was particularly precious and important. Mahabodhi Temple when restored in 1880 was based on this miniature model.



The glorious period of Mahabodhi Temple was during the reign of Pala Kings in 8th to 12th century. Bengal rulers supported the temple with lavish donations and contributions. The site was then also a learning center. The famous scholar Atista who played an important role in the rise of Tibetan Buddhism, was ordained in Mahabodhi Temple.



Large remains of temples and shrines are found near the northern staircase leading to Mahabodhi temple. Among them, one was built by King Meghavanna and one by Monk Mahanam from Sri Lanka. Mahabodhi Temple was under the control of Sri Lankan Buddhists with the effort of King Meghavanna in 4th century. Rev. Mahanam visited the site in year 588 and he built a shrine with a statue of Buddha. The two structures were still existing when Chinese monk Rev. Xuanzang visited in 7th century and Sri Lanka monk Rev Dharmasvamim visited in 13th century.



Myanmar Buddhists also have long and close relationship with Mahabodhi Temple site since 11th century. Devotees contributed large sums of donations and Kings sent missions to maintain and carry out the repair work of the temple.



Being the cradle of Buddhism, Bodhgaya especially the Mahabodhi Temple site, has been revered as the holiest place of Buddhist pilgrimage in the world.



Mahabodhi Temple Complex marks the most important event in the life of Lord Buddha, where and when he attained enlightenment and became An Awaken One.



Mahabodhi Temple Complex covering an area of 4.86 ha, influenced in the development of architecture over centuries but the teachings of Lord Buddha influenced in the development of human's life and mind, vast and far.



During our stay in Bodhgaya, each time when we stepped in the temple site, first thing to do was to go round Mahabodhi Temple 3 times and repeatedly recited Buddha's ten honored names: Itipiso Bhagava, Araham, Samma Sambuddho, Vijja Carana Sampanno, Sugato, Lo Kavidu, Anut Taro Purisadham Masa Rathi, Sat-tha-de Vamanussanam, Buddho, Bhagava Ti........



Praising Lord Buddha with the ten honored names: Such, indeed is that Blessed One: He is the Arahant Worthy of Salutation, The fully self-enlightened, Perfect in knowledge and conduct, Well-gone, Know-er of the worlds, Incomparable Trainer of those who can be trained, Teacher of Gods and men, Awakened, Blessed.



In our last evening at Bodhgaya, we spent our time sitting under Bodhi Tree for few hours and circled Mahabodhi Temple 7 rounds. Sadhu, Sadhu, Sadhu to the greatest master Lord Buddha!