'Buddham Saranam Gacchami'
The land of enlightenment
I have spent the last 1-1.5 years understanding the ancient Indian knowledge systems of India. I have been able to study only briefly about Ayurveda, Siddha, Kama, and more. At the same time, my father was transferred to Gaya, Bihar (2024) as his last Army posting. I realized it is such a holy place for Buddhism as Lord Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. I was eager to see the Peepal tree (famously known as the Bodhi tree) that helped him with such a deep life experience. The experience had a significant impact on the world.
I decided to visit the Mahabodhi temple, considered a well-known UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a temple complex with small shrines, and people meditating & chanting inside the campus. People from all faiths and beliefs come to this sacred space.
As I entered the temple, the entire space buzzed with ‘Buddham Saranam Gacchami’, a chant meaning ‘I take refuge in Buddha’. It is a common Buddhist prayer known as the Three Refuges or Triple Gem, which expresses the practitioner's commitment to Buddhism. The full chant is:
Buddham Saranam Gacchami - I go to Buddha for refuge
Dhammam Saranam Gacchami- I go to Dhamma (the teachings of Buddha) for refuge
Sangham Saranam Gacchami- I go to Sangha (the community of Buddhist practitioners or seekers) for refuge
Buddhists recite these lines to reaffirm their faith and dedication to the path of enlightenment as taught by the Buddha.
Listening to the chants, and seeing beautiful symbols representing Gautam Buddha’s life, that is part of Buddhism in the present times. As I walked towards the main temple, I saw these beautiful footprints, beautiful sculptures, and the famous Peepal tree that is worshipped by people across the globe.
I felt so much calm seeing the sacred tree and people worshiping, meditating, and chanting that could be heard from a distance. The complex tends to be a bit crowded around the sacred Bodhi tree representing a significant chapter in ancient history of India and the world. It was a truly special place.
As I stood up and started walking towards the exit, I noticed a group from Thailand celebrating a ceremony. I went closer to understand the practice. From what I saw - it was a ceremony where Buddhists, especially monks, shave their heads - part of the Pabbajja as part of their ordination process into monastic life. Unfortunately, I couldn’t get the details as there was a translation issue. (If anyone reading this happens to know about the ceremony, please share it with me. I would love to learn)
There were scenes from Buddha’s life and Buddhist philosophy depicted on the walls.
Right next to the temple, there is a Meditation park (Sadhana Udyan)
It’s also interesting to see the cultural impact Lord Budha’s life had on the city. I was happy to see a temple popularly known as the Chinese temple by the locals. Numerous temples in Bodh Gaya represent South Asian culture. It is a beautiful place to see and witness how ancient knowledge is being carried forward to the future.
Note: Phones are not allowed inside the temple. However, a camera can be taken inside if you buy a pass for it. All the photos are captured through the camera. Please do not use or copy them without my permission.
I totally agree with you, it's a great experience to witness this beautiful place. The calmness one feels here is at another level. Thankyou for making me a part of this. :)