Thailand Deputy PM offers prayers at Bodh Gaya temple

Gaya: Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand Bawornsak Uwanno, leading a Royal Thai govt delegation, reached Bodh Gaya on Thursday.Amid the chanting of sacred mantras from Buddhist religious texts by monks, he offered prayers before the statue of Buddha in the sanctum sanctorum and also under the sacred Bodhi tree at the World Heritage Mahabodhi Mahavihara.According to a press release issued by the Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC), “The Thai Dy PM expressed his deep respect and admiration during his visit to the Mahavihara, the timeless universal symbol of peace, compassion, and enlightenment.”The release further stated that Mahavihara chief priest Bhikkhu Chalinda, caretaker monk Bhikkhu Deenanand, and BTMC official Arvind Singh presented a replica of the Mahavihara, a Bodhi tree leaf, and a khada (ceremonial scarf) to the visiting dignitary.“The Mahavihara, under the dedicated stewardship of the BTMC, continues to serve as a beacon of spiritual harmony, attracting pilgrims, scholars, and dignitaries from around the world to connect with Lord Buddha’s profound legacy,” the statement added.