BHAIRAHAWA, Aug 7: The construction of an Indian international Buddhist culture and heritage center has begun in Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and then Prime Minister of Nepal, Sher Bahadur Deuba, had jointly laid a foundation stone during Modi's Lumbini visit last year.

The construction began with special Buddhist worship and recitation by the Vikchhus. The heritage would be established in lotus shape.

During the land worship ceremony, Acting Vice Chairman of Lumbini Development Trust, Siddhi Charan Bhattarai, observed that it was a matter of happiness to have an Indian monastery of international standard in Lumbini. It would help further boost the glory of the birthplace of Lord Buddha.

Nepal and India are not mere neighbors but culturally associated for hundreds of years due to Lord Gautam Buddha, he said, adding that robust cooperation between Nepal and India is necessary to boost Buddhist tourism. The construction of the heritage would be materialized after one and half years, according to him.

Similarly, former Vice Chairman of the Trust, Vikchhu Maittya, said construction of a monastery of international importance would help promote spiritual and religious activities.

General Secretary of the International Buddhist Confederation, Dr Vikchhu Dhammapiya, said it was a significant day to begin the construction of modern heritage promoting Buddhist culture in Lumbini. It would help strengthen relations between Nepal and India.

Also speaking in the program, Secretary at Indian Embassy in Kathmandu, and member of international Buddhist confederation, believed that the construction of the monastery would foster spiritual activities.

The cost of undertaking is Rs 1.60 billion, it was shared. ACC India and Gorkha Builders JV have been contracted for the heritage being built in zero net technology.

(RSS)

 
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