Gayaji: Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar on Wednesday visited Bodh Gaya for the first time after the formation of the new government. The visit was held under tight security. On his arrival at the Mahabodhi Temple, he was warmly welcomed by the temple secretary, Dr Mahashweta Maharathi, and Bhikkhu Dr Manoj. The visit was seen as both a spiritual and symbolic moment for the chief minister, as Bodh Gaya is one of the most important religious sites in the world.
The chief minister entered the sanctum sanctorum of the Mahabodhi Temple and offered prayers after having darshan of Lord Buddha. Temple priests performed a special puja and chanted mantras during the ceremony. According to Dr Arvind Singh, a member of the Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC), Nitish Kumar offered kheer as prasad to Lord Buddha. After the prayers, the chief minister went to the Bodhi tree and meditated quietly for about two minutes.
While speaking to those present, Nitish Kumar expressed deep devotion to Lord Buddha. He said that Buddha’s message of peace, compassion and non-violence should never be forgotten. The chief minister also stressed the need to spread the teachings of Lord Buddha across the world, saying they are still relevant in today’s times.
On this occasion, the BTMC honoured the chief minister by presenting him with several mementos. These included a replica of the Mahabodhi Temple, a sacred Bodhi leaf, the BTMC publication The Bodhi Path, Legends of Buddha, and an art portfolio. Mahabodhi Temple caretaker Bhikkhu Dr Dinanand and BTMC member Kiran Lama were also present during the programme.
During the visit, Nitish Kumar also inaugurated two electric vehicles brought for the Mahabodhi Temple complex. The vehicles have been purchased by the BTMC so that VVIP and VIP guests do not have to walk long distances inside the temple area. Before the chief minister’s arrival, the Bodh Gayaji Municipal Council carried out special cleaning on the roads, sprinkling water to reduce dust and ensure cleanliness.
Party workers from the Janata Dal (United) and the BJP welcomed the chief minister on his arrival in Bodh Gayaji. Slogans praising Nitish Kumar were raised outside the temple premises. Several leaders and workers from both parties were present, making the visit a well-organised and peaceful event.
