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

• 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.