Mahabodhi Temple Complex

PWOnlyIAS

March 28, 2025

Mahabodhi Temple Complex

Bodh Gaya is witnessing large-scale protests by Buddhist groups demanding full control of the Mahabodhi Temple, opposing Hindu participation in its administration.

  • The dispute arises from the Bodh Gaya Temple Act, 1949, which mandates shared management.

About Mahabodhi Temple Complex

Mahabodhi Temple

  • The Mahabodhi Temple Complex is one of the four holy sites related to the life of the Lord Buddha, and particularly to the attainment of Enlightenment.
    • Other three sites:
      • Lumbini (Nepal): Birthplace of Buddha.
      • Sarnath (Uttar Pradesh): Site of the first sermon (Dharma-Chakra-Pravartana).
      • Kushinagar (Uttar Pradesh): Place of Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana (death).
  • Location: Situated near the Niranjana River (also known as the Falgu/Phalgu River). in Gaya district, Bihar, India.
  • UNESCO Recognition: Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002.
    • Recognized for its architectural excellence and historical association with Buddha’s life.
  • 6th century BCE: Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree, becoming Buddha.

Influence of Various Rulers on the Temple Complex

  • Emperor Ashoka (3rd century BCE):
    • Built the first temple at the site.
    • Constructed the Vajrasana (Diamond Throne) and a shrine.
  • Gupta Period (5th-6th centuries CE): The present temple was reconstructed entirely in brick.
  • King Harshavardhana (7th century CE): Expanded Buddhist structures.
  • 12th century CE: The temple declined due to Islamic invasions.
  • 19th century CE: Revived under British archaeologist Alexander Cunningham.

Key Feature of Present Temple Complex

  • The complex: It has  a  grand 50-meter-high temple. It also encloses six sacred places and a seventh, the Lotus Pond, outside the southern enclosure.
  • Sacred Bodhi Tree: Located west of the main temple. It is believed to be a direct descendant of the original Bodhi Tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.
  • Vajrasana (Diamond Throne): A stone slab built by Ashoka to mark the exact location where Buddha sat.
  • Animesh Lochana Chaitya: Site where Buddha spent the second week in meditation.
  • Inner Shrine:  Houses a yellow sandstone statue of Buddha encased in glass.

Architectural Significance

  • One of the earliest Buddhist temples built entirely in brick.
  • Features a pyramidal shikhara (tower) with multiple layers of niches, arch motifs, and intricate engravings.
  • Four identical corner towers, each topped with an umbrella-like dome.

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UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
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हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध
Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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