By Asima Pandey ( 01st April, 2008)
A sense of unknown thrill infused into my soul as I was moving closer to
the Mahabodhi temple. The continues hymns of Buddham Sarnam Gachchami,
Sangam Sarnam Gachchami echoed in the ambiance. The voices grew louder as I
mover towards the shrine. An incredible serenity and sense of unknown
spiritual thrill floored me. In front of temple there were number of Kiosks
selling statues of Sakya muni as well as other souvenirs. The gate of
Mahabodhi temple is highly ornate and built on the same spot where Gautam
Siddharta attained Nirvana and became Lord Buddha.
It was a great experience to witness the ancient example of Indian
architecture. The temple was a contribution of several kings and queens of
India, Sri Lanka and Myanmar. The present 170 ft high Mahabodhi temple look
was given by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. The beautiful and glaring
most revered Buddhism structure was mesmerising. Not only the ancient
architectural and sculptural art but also the ambiance is so gripping that I
appreciated myself for choosing a weekend break from Patna, my home town.
From Patna to Bodhgaya to Patna is 112km and takes about four hours to
reach. As Mahabodhi temple is a World Heritage Site, there are few
moderately priced tourist bungalows but for me it was a day trip. Adjacent
to the temple the famous Mahabodhi tree under Buddha is said to have
preached. I waited like other Buddhist to wait for leaves to fall and
collected it as a memento. There were monks from various south east Asian
countries who meditated in the temple premises round the clock.
Filled with divine pleasure I walked around the temple. The place was
copious with monasteries and temples established by different countries from
time to time. Each monastery represents the ethnic and architectural style
of its country. Slowly sun set and the lights came on different monasteries.
I had to return back to Patna before night. I bought famous tilkut and
kesaria peda. The journey back to my home was a peaceful journey I had even
been experienced.
Related Guide Links
Bodhgaya
Mahabodhi Temple
Nalanda
Rajgir
Sarnath
