Tejaswini
Bodh Gaya: The three-day Bodh Mahotsav commenced at the Kalachakra ground in Bodh Gaya with a serene atmosphere created by the chanting of sutras by Bhikkhus (monks) representing both Theravada and Mahayana traditions. The inaugural evening also featured captivating cultural performances, including the ‘Bihar Gaurav Gaan’ presented by artists from the Bihar Sangeet Natak Academy, along with cultural troupes from Thailand and Laos.
The auspicious event witnessed the release of a commemorative souvenir named ‘Tathagat,’ adding a touch of symbolism to the celebration.
Md. Israil Mansoori, the State Information Technology Minister and Minister in charge of Gaya, inaugurated the Mahotsav alongside his cabinet colleague, Agriculture Minister Kumar Sarvjeet. During the inauguration, Mansoori highlighted the transformative impact of the new tourism policy spearheaded by Deputy Chief Minister and State Tourism Minister Tejashwi Prasad Yadav. The policy aims to enhance facilities for tourists and devotees exploring various tourist sites within the state.
Gaya and Bodh Gaya, referred to as the twin cities, hold significant importance as pilgrimage and tourist destinations. Gaya attracts a substantial number of devotees during Pitripaksh, while Bodh Gaya remains a magnet for foreign visitors seeking spiritual enlightenment.
Commending the efforts of District Magistrate Thiyagarajan SM, who organized the Panchayat darshan competition during the Mahotsav, Mansoori urged the public to embrace Buddha’s teachings of peace and non-violence, encouraging them to become responsible citizens.
The Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation General Manager, KD Projjwal, shared insights into the new tourism policy. He emphasized that the policy includes provisions for subsidies ranging from Rs three to Rs 25 crore, aimed at encouraging tourists to extend their stays, thereby stimulating employment and boosting the local economy.
Adding to this, Minister Sarvjeet revealed specific details of the policy, stating that a subsidy of Rs 3 crore would be granted for a Rs 10 crore investment in hotel construction. Additionally, the state government is contemplating a 25-30% relaxation on the purchase of high-quality tourist buses, further promoting the growth of the tourism sector in the region.
