Photo 1 Caption: The View of the Pagoda just after entering the Gate.
Recently, I had an sudden opportunity to visit the Global Vipassana Pagoda in Gorai, Borivali (Mumbai). Hence, I decided to explore the Pagoda through Photography. It was my unplanned visit else I would have conducted meet up. Global Vipassana Pagoda is an awe-inspiring sight that is hard to miss. This impressive structure has been constructed to commemorate and revive Vipassana meditation’s philosophy and traditional practice. The large dome is visible from many miles away with a grand auditorium that can hold up to 8,000 people at a time. Hence, I decided to explore the Global Vipassana Pagoda through Photography. The main objective of this photographic exploration is to upload the helpful photos on Google maps in respect of it’s Beauty, Atmosphere, Architecture & Accessibility features of The Global Vipassana Pagoda.
Photo 2 Caption: The Big Bell on the left side of Main entry to Pagoda.
Photo 3 Caption: The Big Nagada (Huge Drum) on the right side of Main entry to Pagoda.
This majestic building has become an important place of pilgrimage for people around the world and is a great place to explore through photography. Photographic exploration of Global Vipassana Pagoda offers one the chance to capture the special atmosphere of calmness and serenity while admiring the wonderful architecture. The pagoda is a sight to behold from the outside with its golden and white marble exterior.
Photo 4 Caption: The View after finishing climbing stairs.
You can do 10 minutes of Meditation under the supervision of Meditation expert available there. The Videography and Photography is not allowed inside inside the viewing gallery of the Pagoda. You can see many people doing meditation in the calm environment. The surrounding landscape, lush with palm trees and soothing breeze, helps to create an arresting atmosphere further still.
Photo 5 Caption: The Ashoka Pillar which is consist of 4 Lions of the top of it which is a National Emblem of India.
On the front right side of the Pagoda, there is garden for kids. The dense trees gives dark shadow during the intense sunlight which feels great. Kids can enjoy there for a while. Beside Garden, there is Ashoka Pillar. The Ashoka Pillar is a 13.2 meter tall granite monolith that was originally erected by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. It is a reminder of the Emperor’s legacy of non-violence and his commitment to Buddhism. The pillar also has inscriptions which detail the Emperor’s edicts. The Ashoka Pillar is a reminder of the uniquely Indian expression of the faith of Buddhism. It stands as a testament to the Emperor’s commitment to non-violence and the importance of meditation in the lives of his people. The Pagoda is an essential part of understanding the history of Indian Buddhism and the journey of the religion around the world. The Global Vipassana Pagoda houses the pillar with all its original glory. Visitors can get a close look of the pillar as they visit the Pagoda.
Photo 6 Caption: Front view of the Dhamma Pattan Vipassana Center. Ramps from both sides are provided.
The Dhamma Pattan center offers a range of 10 days and 20 days intensive Vipassana meditation programs. There is also a 2-day introduction to Vipassana course. These courses are suitable for beginners as well as experienced meditators. The center provides comfortable accommodation in private or shared rooms.
Photo 7 Caption: The Buddha Statue.
This around 21.5 foot statue of Gautam Buddha is made out on a single marble. The image is designed like the body of Gautam Buddha in meditation posture with hands resting on the lap in a gesture of Meditation. The statue is covered in sitting sandstone and is decorated with pieces of glasswork. This provides a suitable environment for meditating sentiments such as peace and joy. It is also said to be a source of peace and wellbeing for devotees and visitors alike.
Photo 8 Caption: Replica Buddha’s Hand inscribed with the “भवतु सब्ब मंगलम” meaning May all beings be happy.
Photo 9 Caption: Front View of the Buddha’s seating Statue.
Below the seating statue of Buddha, you can see four paintings. These four paintings are the very important incidents in Buddha’s life.
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Birth
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Enlightenment
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Dhamma Chakra Pravartan - First Sermon
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Mahaparinirvana - Nirvana after death.
Photo 10 Caption: Collage of photos of Painting Gallery of Buddha’s life.
On the down level of Pagoda, you will get opportunity to visit the Painting exhibition on Buddha’s life. The exhibition included both traditional and contemporary renderings of the Enlightened One in a variety of mediums from oils and frescoes to watercolours and prints. The works on display were ranging from ancient Indian Buddhist art to modern interpretations from contemporary masters. Each of the artworks provided a unique and thought-provoking insight into the importance of Buddha and his teachings for the modern world. The exhibition was well-received by visitors who were intrigued and moved by the artworks which were selected. The intimacy and concentration during the exhibition provided an opportunity for visitors to gain deeper insight into the nature of Buddhism and gain a greater appreciation for the timeless legacy of the enlightened one. There were also interactive events which encouraged visitors to further contemplate the spiritual essence of the paintings and explore how it applies to their own lives. There are total around 128 nos of large size paintings. You can opt audio guided tour by opting as extra service by paying respective charges to know about each and every painting.
Photo 11 Caption: Wheelchair is available.
Photo 12 Caption: The viewing gallery of Meditation hall and Painting Exhibition hall is fully accessible.
Photo 13 Caption: Washroom is available for Diffrentially abled.
Photo 14 Caption: The design on the Doors is a representation of Buddha’s life incidents.
Photo 16 Caption: Front view of Main entry of Global Vipassana Pagoda.
Photo 17 Caption: The Pagoda and the message “May all beings be Happy” in one frame.
Through my Photographic exploration I observed following points:
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The beauty of the Global Vipassana Pagoda is remarkable. The architecture features a towering main hall, which stands 78 meters high and is surrounded by four smaller towers that offer a panoramic view of the surrounding area. Inside the main hall, there is a large, circular meditation chamber. The exterior of the pagoda is also a sight to be seen, with its brightly colored walls and carved woodwork.
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The atmosphere of the Global Vipassana Pagoda is peaceful and serene, offering a refuge from the noise and chaos of the city. Visitors can sit in the gardens around the pagoda or explore the meditation chamber, which provides a chance to relax and reflect. The pagoda also offers regular meditation courses, where visitors can learn the Vipassana method of meditation and gain a deeper understanding of mindfulness.
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The architecture of the pagoda incorporates traditional Indian designs and techniques, as well as modern building materials. Each of the pagoda’s towers is constructed from reinforced concrete, which is then covered with traditional hand-carved stonework. The walls are painted with intricate patterns of gold and white, complementing the other details.
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The Global Vipassana Pagoda is designed to be 100% accessible for wheelchair. There are ramps and elevators to the upper floors, and the entire building is wheelchair accessible. Also, lift is available.
The Global Vipassana Pagoda is an incredible place, offering beauty, atmosphere, architecture, and accessibility to everyone who visits. From the hand-carved stonework to the peaceful gardens, this pagoda is truly a place of both spiritual and physical discovery. The Global Vipassana Pagoda is also one of the few places of worship and reflection dedicated wholly and solely to Buddhism and it is home to many devout Buddhists and visitors. As the words inscribed state, “May all living beings be Happy”, so too may be the mind at the pagoda, with the help of the serene and inspiring presence of the Buddha statue.
Thank you…
photo we can take as blessings of Buddha ji .
