Bodh Gaya: Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister Bawornsak Uwanno led a high-level Royal Thai Government delegation on a spiritual visit to the Mahabodhi Mahavihara Temple Complex, the revered UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bodh Gaya, where Lord Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment over 2,500 years ago.
The Thai delegation was warmly welcomed at the historic shrine by Bhikkhu Chalinda, Chief Monk, Bhikkhu Dr. Deenanand, Caretaker Monk, and Dr. Arvind Singh, a member of the Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC). As part of the traditional reception, the visiting dignitaries were honoured with ceremonial khadas, symbolising respect and goodwill.
During the visit, Uwanno and members of his delegation offered prayers at the temple’s main shrine and meditated beneath the sacred Bodhi Tree, believed to be a direct descendant of the tree under which Prince Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha. The atmosphere turned deeply spiritual as monks chanted sacred mantras, creating a serene and contemplative environment.
To mark the occasion, the temple authorities presented the Thai Deputy Prime Minister with special mementos on behalf of the BTMC, including a replica of the Mahabodhi Temple and a sacred Bodhi leaf.
Uwanno also signed the temple’s Visitors’ Book, expressing profound admiration for the Mahabodhi Mahavihara and describing it as a timeless symbol of peace, compassion, and enlightenment for people across the world.
Members of the Thai delegation also interacted briefly with the temple monks and officials, discussing the deep historical and spiritual ties between India and Thailand through Buddhism. The visit highlighted the enduring cultural and religious connections shared by the two nations.
Officials of the BTMC said such visits by international dignitaries further strengthen Bodh Gaya’s status as one of the world’s most important Buddhist pilgrimage centres. The presence of the Thai delegation also drew attention from pilgrims and visitors present at the temple complex.
Managed by the Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee, the Mahabodhi Mahavihara continues to draw pilgrims, scholars, and global leaders who come to connect with the spiritual legacy of Lord Buddha and the message of universal harmony.
