Bodh Gaya: The Bodh Gaya temple management committee (BTMC) commenced the 2570th Buddha Jayanti celebrations on Thursday with the offering of the first prasad before the statue of Buddha inside the sanctum sanctorum of the Mahabodhi Mahavihara, as revered monks chanted sacred sutras.
Around 10,000 devotees from India and overseas are expected to participate in the annual observances, centred on the full moon day considered sacred in Buddhism as the day of Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and mahaparinirvana.
The UNESCO world heritage site Mahabodhi Mahavihara, regarded as the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment, has become the focal point for pilgrims gathering in Bodh Gaya for the threefold sacred occasion.
Senior leaders and foreign dignitaries to attend main function
The main ceremony, scheduled for Friday, is expected to be attended by Bihar chief minister Samrat Choudhary, Union minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, Bihar assembly speaker Prem Kumar and the consul general of Thailand in India, Siriporn Thanyathep.
Their participation reflects the continuing cultural and spiritual ties between Bihar and Buddhist-majority nations across Asia.
Free transport, medical aid and hydration camps launched
To manage the expected influx of visitors, the BTMC launched a series of public welfare initiatives on Thursday morning.
Officials flagged off a three-day free bus service between Gaya railway station and Bodh Gaya, while also inaugurating a free medical camp along with hydration and refreshment centres for pilgrims.
The ceremony was led by BTMC member secretary Mahashweta Maharathi, members Arvind Singh, Kiran Lama and Mithun Manjhi besides, Mahavihara chief priest Bhikkhu Chalinda, Ven. Dinanand and Ven. Manoj and other devotees and the monks.
Facilities arranged for outstation pilgrims
Authorities said toilets, bathing areas and kitchen sections had been arranged for devotees arriving from outside the district and state.
A separate pandal has also been prepared for sanghdana — the ceremonial offering of meals to monks — to be organised by the committee on Friday.
Strong international turnout expected
Maharathi said this year’s celebrations would see significant overseas participation.
Monks from Japan who travelled specially to Bodh Gaya joined the opening ceremony alongside resident Japanese monks from the Indo-san Nipponji temple. A large number of Thai devotees have also arrived for the occasion.
She added that a Thai devotee, Boonsri Kunpalin, along with her family, is funding this year’s grand commemorative events.
