Vishwa Shanti Stupa – Peace Pagoda & Buddhist Monument in India
The stunning symbol of peace situated in Bihar is very famous for its architecture and spiritual significance. Which architecture here are we going to discuss? The Vishwa shanti stupa also known as “World Peace Stupa”. Here we are going to take insights, why this structure is significant and what are the main points in aspects of history, architecture and religion.
Location of the Vishwa Shanti Stupa
The Vishwa Shanti Stupa is located in Rajgir, Nalanda District, Bihar, near Gitai Mandir. Located On a 400 Metre High Hill. This magnificent white Peace Pagoda, which is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the Rajgir hills, is located on Ratnagiri Hill.
Echoes of the Past – the historical background of Stupa:
A Japanese Buddhist monk named Nichidatsu Fujii built the Vishva Shanti Stupa as part of a global effort to use Buddhist teachings to promote world peace. Lord Buddha meditated here for many years. Rajgir, the former capital of the Magadha kingdom, this place has great historical value. This stupa directly promotes the message of non-violence.
For universal peace and harmony a Buddhist temple stands as a sacred space where prayers are offered. In 1969 the original peace pagoda was completed but later in 1993 the development was done to shape out this place. The neo-Buddhist organization Nipponzan Myohoji’s global movement, the stupa, is part of that movement. In this movement around 800 Peace Pagodas were constructed worldwide. The vision of Bddhist monk, who was deeply inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence. His goal was to use Buddhist teachings to emphasize the need for world peace in response to the atomic bombings of Japan.
Divine Art in Stone – The Stupa’s Magnificent Architectural Design:
The architectural marvel and symbol of peace is at the height of 400 m. high Rajgir Hills. The diameter of the stupa is 103 feet and it is 120 feet tall. Entire structure was constructed with white marble. White colour which directly connects you to peace. It features gold-gilded statues of Buddha at each of its four corners. Each corner represents four major events of the Buddha lifestyle: that is birth, enlightenment, the first sermon, and nirvana. The stupa was built by Mackintosh Burn Limited. A PSU construction company under the Government of West Bengal has looked into the construction work. The site is also known historically as Gridhakuta, which increases its spiritual and cultural significance.
As this structure is at height after reaching out there, with beautiful surroundings it’s enough to give you perfect views. That view compliments the peace of this place.
A Trip to Peace – Taking in the Stupa’s Magnificent Views:
The facilities are available here, with these facilities one can enjoy the ride with views of beautiful surroundings. You can visit this place between 9:00 A.M to 5:00 P.M.
How to reach? – Your Path to Peace:
Vishwa Shanti Stupa in Rajgir, Bihar is easily connected with all the transport facilities like, air, road and railways. Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport in Patna is the nearest airport to reach this place. This airport is around 100 Km away, taxi facilities are easily available from the airport. If you choose the rail transport mode, Rajgir Railway Station is the nearest railway station. By road, Rajgir is 100 km from Patna and 80 km from Gaya. Taxis and buses are easily accessible from this place.
Beyond the Heights – The Timeless Message of Peace and Harmony:
In Rajgir, Bihar, the Vishwa Shanti Stupa is a spectacular representation of spirituality, serenity, and architectural genius. This magnificent white marble stupa, which stands atop the beautiful Ratnagiri Hill, is a living example of Buddhism’s emphasis on harmony and non-violence. The stupa has great religious and cultural value and a long history connected to Lord Buddha and the international peace movement headed by Nichidatsu Fujii. Its elaborate design enhances its spiritual character by including gold-gilded Buddha sculptures that symbolize significant events in his life. The location offers stunning panoramic views of the Rajgir hills in addition to a calm and contemplative ambiance.
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