Bodhi Vandana

The Bodhi Tree, under which the Buddha gained Enlightenment, is an object of veneration to Buddhists. It is commonly known as 'Pipphal' tree and its botanical name is 'Ficus Religiosa'. Even before the Buddha's Enlighten­ment, this tree was long regarded as a holy tree in India.

 After His Enlightenment, the Buddha showed His gratitude to this tree by gazing at it fondly from a distance for one whole week upon getting up from His seat of Enlightenment. On another occasion, the Buddha advised His followers to plant a Bodhi tree to represent Him during His absence. 

Ever since, the Buddhist world has been vene­rating this sacred tree which represents the Enlightenment of the Master. A firm belief pre­vails among Buddhists that certain power protects and influences the vicinity wherever a Bodhi tree is situated and venerated. Those who fail to grasp the symbolism of such veneration criticize the Buddhist community for being tree worshippers.