Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Tree

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Sri Lanka on April 6, 2025, included stop at the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple in Anuradhapura. This temple houses the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree, a revered symbol of peace and spiritual continuity. Modi brought into light the tree’s historical and cultural importance in a post on social media. The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree is acknowledged as the oldest living cultivated plant in the world, with roots tracing back to the enlightenment of Gautam Buddha.

The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Tree

The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree, scientifically known as Ficus religiosa, is believed to have originated from a branch of the tree under which Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodhgaya. This branch was transported to Sri Lanka by Sanghamitta, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka. Her arrival marked a very important moment in the spread of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. The tree and its significance are celebrated annually during Uduvapa Poya, a full moon festival in December.

Historical Context of Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura served as a political and religious capital for over 1,300 years. It was a thriving centre until its abandonment following an invasion by the Chola Empire in 993 CE. The city, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was hidden in dense jungle for centuries. Recent archaeological efforts have made the site accessible, revealing its palaces, monasteries, and monuments.

Sanghamitta’s Role in Buddhism’s Spread

Sanghamitta’s journey to Sri Lanka was initiated at the request of King Devanampiya Tissa, who sought to embrace Buddhism. Her brother, Mahindra, had previously introduced the faith to the king. Sanghamitta’s arrival was crucial for the establishment of the Buddhist monastic order in Sri Lanka, as she initiated royal women into the order. Both siblings contributed to the growth of Buddhism in the region.

Preservation of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Tree

The longevity of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree is attributed to dedicated care and its unique ability to regenerate from roots and seeds. Despite facing threats, including vandalism in 1929 and violence during the LTTE conflict in 1985, the tree has endured. Its resilience is a testament to the cultural and spiritual significance it holds for Buddhists.

The Mahabodhi Tree in Bodhgaya

The original Mahabodhi tree in Bodhgaya, under which Buddha attained enlightenment, was destroyed in antiquity. However, the existing Pipal tree at the site is believed to have descended from its genetic material. This continuity of lineage puts stress on the importance of both trees in Buddhist tradition.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the role of Sanghamitta in the propagation of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
2. Estimate the impact of the Chola invasion on the cultural heritage of Anuradhapura.
3. Point out the significance of Uduvapa Poya in Sri Lankan Buddhist culture.
4. What is the importance of the Mahabodhi tree in Bodhgaya? How does it relate to the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the role of Sanghamitta in the propagation of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

1. Sanghamitta was sent to Sri Lanka at the request of King Devanampiya Tissa to establish Buddhism.
2. She initiated royal women into the Buddhist monastic order, expanding the faith’s reach.
3. Her arrival marked moment in the formal establishment of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
4. Sanghamitta’s actions, alongside her brother Mahindra, solidified Buddhism’s influence in the region.
5. She is celebrated for her role in the cultural and spiritual development of Sri Lankan society.

2. Estimate the impact of the Chola invasion on the cultural heritage of Anuradhapura.

1. The Chola invasion in 993 CE led to the abandonment of Anuradhapura, disrupting its political and religious significance.
2. Many monuments, palaces, and monasteries were left in ruins, impacting cultural continuity.
3. The city was hidden in jungle for centuries, leading to loss of historical knowledge and artifacts.
4. UNESCO recognition as a World Heritage Site marks its cultural importance despite the invasion.
5. Recent archaeological efforts have revealed the site’s historical richness, aiding in cultural preservation.

3. Point out the significance of Uduvapa Poya in Sri Lankan Buddhist culture.

1. Uduvapa Poya celebrates Sanghamitta’s arrival with the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi branch, marking a key moment in Buddhism’s spread.
2. It is observed on a full moon night in December, reinforcing the lunar calendar’s importance in Buddhist traditions.
3. The festival encourages community gatherings, rituals, and reverence for the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree.
4. It symbolizes the continuity of Buddhist teachings and practices in Sri Lanka.
5. Uduvapa Poya enhances cultural identity and promotes the preservation of Buddhist heritage.

4. What is the importance of the Mahabodhi tree in Bodhgaya? How does it relate to the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree?

1. The Mahabodhi tree in Bodhgaya is where Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment, making it a sacred site for Buddhists.
2. The original tree was destroyed, but the current Pipal tree is believed to have descended from its genetic material.
3. Both trees symbolize spiritual continuity and the teachings of Buddhism across regions.
4. The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree is a direct descendant of the Mahabodhi tree, linking Sri Lankan Buddhism to its Indian roots.
5. These trees serve as vital cultural and religious symbols, representing the historical spread of Buddhism.