Bodh Mahotsav kicks off with cultural performances in Gaya

Gaya: Amid chanting of Buddhist sutras by monks of the Mahayana and Theravada traditions, the three-day annual Bodh Mahotsav was declared open on Thursday evening. The inaugural function was held at the Kalachakra ground, around 200 metres north-west of the world heritage Mahabodhi Mahavihara, where cultural programmes will be organised, particularly in the evenings.

Union micro, small, and medium enterprises minister Jitan Ram Manjhi and state tourism minister Arun Shankar Prasad inaugurated the mahotsav along with other public representatives of Gaya district.




In his address, Manjhi stressed the importance of assimilating the teachings of truth, non-violence, compassion, and brotherhood, which he said would help India emerge as a global leader.

While praising the vision of CM Nitish Kumar to bring Ganga water to Gaya, Bodh Gaya, and Nawada through a pipeline network, Manjhi described it as a great achievement.

He added, “Discussions have been held with the union ministry of Jal Shakti to bring water into Falgu river from Indrapuri. After the project for water availability in Falgu is implemented, a marine road will be developed on both ends of the river on the lines of Marine Drive.”

The state tourism minister reiterated the govt’s commitment to developing different tourist circuits to attract more visitors to the state, aimed at creating employment and generating revenue. “Last year, more than seven crore domestic tourists visited the different tourist sites within the state,” he said.

On the opening day, troupes from Vietnam and Thailand performed traditional art forms of their respective countries based on Buddhism. Bollywood playback singer Javed Ali enthralled the audience with his performance.

During the remaining two days, artists from Laos, Japan, and Sri Lanka will also perform traditional art from their respective countries. In addition, performances by Roop Kumar Rathore and Bhumi Trivedi are scheduled.