January 15, 2008
by News Desk

The stage has been set for the three-day ‘Buddha Mahotsava,’ the annual Buddhist festival that begins on Tuesday here. Bodh Gaya, where Lord Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment in the 6th century BC, is abuzz with religious activities ahead of the festival.

Makeshift pavilions and tents have been set up for the rituals.The centuries-old Mahabodhi temple built near the Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment has been lit up with decorative lights.According to Jitendra Srivastava, District Magistrate, Gaya, efforts are being made to organise the celebrations on the same scale, as witnessed on the occasion of the 2550th anniversary of Buddha’s enlightenment last year.

Thousands of Buddhist monks, devotees and scholars from across the globe have already arrived to take part in the annual event organised by the State Government.The aim of the festival is to spread the message of peace and love, and to educate people about the teachings of Buddha.Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is expected to inaugurate the festival, which will include performances by renowned artists from across the country.Besides cultural functions, special prayers will also be organised on the occasion. (ANI)

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