Bodh Gaya: The installation of bamboo scaffolding for hydro-cleaning at the Mahabodhi Temple formally commenced on Tuesday, marking the beginning of a conservation exercise at one of Buddhism’s holiest sites. Revered monks offered prayers and blessings at the start of the work, creating what attendees described as a deeply spiritual and emotional atmosphere.
Present at the ceremony were Dr Mahasweta Maharathi, secretary of the Bodhgaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC); Dr Arvind Kumar Singh, BTMC member; Venerable Bhikkhu Chalinda, chief monk of the Mahabodhi Temple; Bhikkhu Dinananda, patron monk; and Virendra Singh, superintendent archaeologist of the Archaeological Survey of India (Bodhgaya Archaeological Museum).
The hydro-cleaning initiative is being undertaken by the Thai volunteer group “Chobatham” as an act of devotion and service. According to officials, the work is being carried out with strict adherence to established conservation guidelines to ensure that the temple’s sanctity, structural integrity and historical heritage remain fully protected.
The process has been coordinated closely with the Archaeological Survey of India, which is responsible for the conservation of the Unesco-listed monument. From the installation of non-invasive bamboo scaffolding to the execution of the cleaning process, an ASI representative will remain present on site to ensure compliance with conservation standards and safety protocols.
Temple authorities said the initiative reflects a collaborative effort between international Buddhist volunteers and Indian conservation authorities to preserve the centuries-old shrine for future generations.
