Bodh Gaya: Scientists from the Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun, conducted a routine health checkup of the sacred Bodhi tree located in the Mahabodhi Temple complex in Gaya. The examination confirmed that the tree is in a healthy state. However, as a precautionary measure, the tree will undergo additional treatment on August 8 and 9.
The precautionary treatment involves chemical applications to prevent potential fungal infections that could affect the tree’s well-being. Despite the positive health report, the scientists deemed the two-day treatment necessary to ensure the continued health of the Bodhi tree.
The health checkup and subsequent treatment are part of a regular three-month schedule maintained by the Forest Research Institute. This routine is designed to monitor and preserve the health of the Bodhi tree, which holds significant cultural and spiritual importance.
During the health checkup, the Bodhi tree was found to be thriving, particularly benefiting from the monsoon season. All branches and twigs were reported to be in excellent condition. The checkup was conducted by Dr. Santan Barthwal and Shailesh Pandey from the Forest Research Institute, and the process was overseen by Mahabodhi Temple Chief Monk Bhikhu Chalinda, Caretaker Dinananda, Secretary Dr. Mahashweta Maharathi, and Member Arvind Singh.
The Bodhi tree, situated within the Mahabodhi Temple complex, is of immense importance to Buddhists worldwide. It is traditionally believed that Lord Buddha meditated beneath this very tree and attained enlightenment. As a result, the tree is a revered symbol of spiritual significance. Buddhist followers often collect fallen leaves from the Bodhi tree, treating them with great reverence and placing them at their places of worship.
