President Droupadi Murmu recently inaugurated the Vishwashanti Buddha Vihar in Udgir, Latur district of Maharashtra. The President, who has been on a visit to Maharashtra since September 2, arrived in Nanded and was flown to Udgir by helicopter to attend the inauguration. The event marked a significant moment as the Buddha Vihar, a spiritual and cultural site, was opened to the public.
The Vishwashanti Buddha Vihar, built on 1.15 hectares of land, is designed to accommodate up to 1,200 people. Its architecture is inspired by historical Buddhist sites, with the entry gate modelled after the entry gate of the famous Sanchi Stupa in Madhya Pradesh.
This newly inaugurated site is also a replica of a similar Buddha Vihar located in Kalaburagi, Karnataka, highlighting the shared cultural and spiritual heritage between the regions.
The centrepiece of the Buddha Vihar is a statue of Lord Buddha, which stands at an impressive height of 10.5 feet and weighs 520 kilograms. This statue serves as a symbol of peace and enlightenment, reflecting the core values of Buddhism.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Union Minister Ramdas Athawale.
State Ministers Sanjay Bansode and Aditi Tatkare, along with members of the All India Bhikkhu Sangha, were also present, making the event a significant gathering of political and spiritual leaders.
However, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was unable to attend the event due to health reasons. According to sources from his party, he is currently resting at his residence in Mumbai.
After the inauguration, a prayer ceremony was conducted at the Buddha Vihar, further enhancing the spiritual atmosphere of the event. The presence of prominent leaders and the inauguration of such a significant site underscore the importance of preserving and promoting the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Buddhism in India.
The Vishwashanti Buddha Vihar is expected to become a major attraction for both pilgrims and tourists, offering a serene environment for meditation and reflection.
The inauguration of this site by President Murmu highlights the continued relevance of Buddhist teachings and the ongoing efforts to preserve and promote these values in modern India.
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