Describing Bodh Gaya as the “land of enlightenment”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the government would develop the site as the spiritual capital for it to serve as a civilisational bond between India and the Buddhist world. Describing Buddha as a “crown jewel” of India, which accepts all ways of worship, he said he revered Buddha as a reformer of not only Hinduism but also the world, who gave a new world view and vision which is critical for survival of all.
Facts About Buddhism
- Buddhism was founded in the north-eastern part of India (Between India and Nepal)
- Buddhism began in India 2,500 years ago and, although virtually extinct in India, it remains the dominant world religion in the East.
- Theravada (“The School of the Elders”) and Mahayana (“The Great Vehicle”) are the two major branches of Buddhism.
- Tripitaka (3 baskets) is considered the most important text of Buddhism, it has 3 volumes: Sutta Pitaka, Vinaya Pitaka and Abhidhamma Pitaka.
- Full moon day is a sacred day, especially the Buddha Poornima, the birthday of Buddha, also the day of his enlightenment and Death (Nirvaana and Parinirvaana).
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