A Buddhist Monastery in the heart of Bangalore

Buddha's teachings are relevant in today's world which is driven by conflicts, more than ever. I believe many of us, though not Buddhists, got influenced by Buddha's thoughts. Buddhist monasteries are perfect places for meditation with their peaceful surroundings. But did you know that there is a Buddhist monastery in the heart of bustling Bangalore city?

Mahabodhi Loka Shanti Buddha Vihara, Bangalore

Yes, near the Freedom Park, you can find this Buddhist monastery or Buddha vihara. If you are going from Anand Rao circle towards the Freedom Park, before the park, if you take a right turn onto Kalidasa road, immediately you can find it!

Buddhist monks reciting prayers in front of statue of Gouthama Buddha, Mahabodhi Society, Bangalore

As you enter the monastery of Maha Bodhi Society, you will be delighted to find a big gold colored metal statue of Gouthama Buddha. When we entered, Buddhist monks were reciting prayers in tandem. We sat there for a while, feeling the vibes of positive energy.

Sunset at Mahabodhi Society, Bangalore

Here, you can also find a Bodhi tree, where visitors are required to maintain peace and the use of camera, smartphones is discouraged.  Seekers  are allowed to perform meditation under the historically significant tree. At Gaya in today's Bihar, under a Bodhi tree, Buddha attained enlightenment.

At the entrance to Mahabodhi Society, Bangalore

Understanding the Buddha's quotes carved on the walls of monastery is a small step in the path of self realization. Places like these are worth as many visits. By the way, it was my second visit to monastery!

Following are the quotes by Buddha you can find on the compound walls of Mahabodhi society, Bangalore :

• "All conditioned things are impermanent" - when one sees this with wisdom, one turns away from suffering. This is the path to purification.
• To avoid all evil, to cultivate good and to cleanse one's mind - this is the teaching of the Buddhas.
• Hatred is never appeased by hatred in this world. By non-hatred alone is hatred appeased. This is a Law Eternal.