Bodh Gaya: A pilgrimage to the Bodhi Tree where the Buddha attained enlightenment.
Singer Thuy Tien recently made a pilgrimage to Bodh Gaya (India), a sacred land preserving traces of Buddha's enlightenment and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Bodh Gaya is a small town located in the southeastern state of Bihar, India, and is now considered one of the most important Buddhist holy sites in the world. It attracts millions of pilgrims each year who come to venerate the Bodhi Tree, traditionally believed to be where Prince Siddhartha meditated for 49 days and nights before attaining enlightenment.
Historical relics dating back over 2,600 years.
Over more than 2,600 years of historical change, the Bodhi tree here has been cut down many times but has always been replanted by descendants of the original tree. Remarkably, the tree's position has always remained unchanged, never shifting from its original location. For devotees, it is a living symbol of the enduring nature of Buddhist teachings.
Beneath the sacred Bodhi tree lies the Diamond Throne. This is an ancient sandstone slab marking the exact spot where the Buddha sat in meditation. The Diamond Throne is revered as the "true pure sanctuary," a place where a pure mind leads to ultimate enlightenment.
Mahabodhi Temple: Ancient brick architectural heritage
Besides the Bodhi Tree, the Mahabodhi Temple is the most important architectural structure in this region. Built entirely of ancient, monolithic brick, it is one of the few remaining ancient brick structures in India. With its towering spire and exquisitely carved Buddha statues, the Mahabodhi Temple was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002.
Singer Thuy Tien's pilgrimage experience
During her recent visit, singer Thuy Tien shared that she came to this sacred place with a grateful heart and seeking peace of mind. The singer said she didn't ask for anything for herself but simply wanted to return to the Buddha's presence to recite scriptures and feel the tranquility.
Born in 1985 in An Giang (formerly Kien Giang province), Thuy Tien is a versatile artist, working as a singer, actress, and model. She married footballer Cong Vinh in 2012 and has a young daughter named Banh Gao. For over a year, Thuy Tien has been a vegetarian because she found that her body no longer tolerated meat.
Overall, Bodh Gaya is not just a tourist destination but also a symbol of enlightenment, offering a tranquil space for those who wish to reconnect with the roots of Buddhism and explore its profound spiritual values.
