Encyclopedia of India–China Cultural Contacts v1.c7.s2.t13.1

v1.c7.s2.t13.1

Mahabodhi Vihar refers to the main Buddhist temple at Bodhgaya (Uruvela) at the spot where Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment. The Vihar includes the famous Bodhi tree (Ficus Religiosa or the peepal Tree) and the Vajrasana (Diamond throne). The original temple existed as tree shrine (*bodhi-ghar*) with railings constructed by Emperor Ashoka in 3rd century BCE. Its earliest depiction is found on reliefs at Bharahut (c. 80 BCE) and Sanchi (c. 25 BCE) *stupas*. This indicates its early recognition as one of the most significant Buddhist centres of worship. So much so that until the popularity of the name of this place as Bodhgaya in the 19th century and after the disappearance of its original name Uruvela due to disuse within two centuries of Buddha's enlightenment, it was known as Sambodhi, Bodhimanda, Vajrasana and Mahabodhi. The most long-lasting and popular name was, however, Mahabodhi which was still being used when A Cunningham visited the place in mid-19th century.