By Tenzin Monlam
DHARAMSHALA, November 21: The 5th century Boudhanath Stupa which suffered massive cracks during Nepal’s worst earthquake last year will be open for public from tomorrow after the conclusion of the renovation and purification rituals.
According to Boudhanath Area Development Committee (BADC), Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal is scheduled to inaugurate the restored the UNESCO World Heritage Site, which suffered heavy damage and cracks throughout the structure. The stupa’s gold-plated crown and top also suffered damaged during the devastating quake.
“The restoration cost us 230 million rupees, all of which came from locals, Buddhists residing in Nepal and abroad, and Buddhist organizations across the world,” said Sampurna Kumar Lama, Chairman of BADC while adding that donations came in form of gold, cash and free labor.
The committee had started the restoration work last year on May 24 with the support of the community and entry inside the 118 feet high stupa’s was prohibited since the earthquake.
“The Tibetans living here in Boudha are very delighted and are in joyous mood after the completion of the renovation and the purification ritual of the stupa,” Kalsang Dhundup, Tibetan Settlement Officer, told Phayul.
It will be open for the public for the first time since the 7.2-quake that jolted the entire nation resulting in over 9,000 deaths and destruction of many other heritage sites of the country.
The three-day purification ritual began on Friday. Tibetans dressed in the traditional Tibetan attires took part in the celebrations with much fanfare during the conclusion of the ritual performed by over 600 monks.
One Response
Hi Tenzin Monlam,
The Stupa dates from the era of Kassapa Buddha, as taught during the 8th century CE by Guru Rinpoche to his 25 Students at Samye Monastery.