Buddhist Temple in Dehradun draws tourists
3 Jul 2008, 1342 Hrs

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Dehradun, July 3 (ANI): Buddhist Temple at Clement Town in Dehradun is attracting tourists from all over the country due to its matchless wall paintings in pure gold colour, meticulously depicting in events in the life of Lord Buddha.

This structure, which was built in 1965, is a replica of original monastery in Tibet. It was created under one of the four schools of Tibetan religion named 'Nyingma', while other three being Kagyu, Sakya and Geluk.

About 50 artists took almost three years to paint the walls of the exemplary structure with gold paint.

According to temple authorities the religious establishment was built to preserve and promote Tibetan culture in the country. "The architecture of chorten (Stupa) is Japanese, although its builder was an Indian. We believe that it is Asia's largest reliquary. It is 220 feet in height. The temple constructed here has five floors. Every floor has a Buddha statue and Gurupadmasambhava's statue amongst others," said Tenkyab Lama, manager, Buddha Temple Committee.

The tourists who visit the temple are spellbound to see the colourful paintings on the wall. They describe the serene surroundings of the temple premises as meditative.

"I have heard about this Buddhist Temple a lot. I have seen amazing example of creativity in its ornate frescoes," said Rajesh Kumar Singh, a tourist from Varanasi.

The Stupa accommodates about 500 lamas who are studying there. The residents are being provided with free clothing, eating and medical facilities.

The Nyingma School of Tibetan Buddhism was founded by Guru Rinpoche Padmasambhava, in the late eighth century.

Guru Rinpoche is credited with building Samye, the first monastery in Tibet, in about 779 CE. By Ashish Goel (ANI)