Gaya: The sacred Bodhi tree at the Unesco world heritage Mahabodhi Mahavihara campus in Bodh Gaya, under which Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment more than 2,600 years ago, has been declared to be in excellent health by scientists from the Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun.The Bodhi tree holds immense spiritual significance for Buddhist devotees across the world, as Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment while practising meditation under it.FRI scientists Santan Barthwal and Shailesh Pandey conducted a routine health assessment of the tree on Monday. Barthwal said no signs of infection or disease were found on its leaves, indicating no significant health concerns.The scientists recommended a few minor maintenance measures to preserve the tree’s health, including careful pruning of dead branches and the application of an organic insecticide spray.Mahavihara chief monk Bhikkhu Chalinda and caretaker monk Bhikkhu Deenanand were present during the assessment.The Bodhgaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC) has signed an MoU with FRI for regular monitoring, maintenance and long-term conservation of the sacred tree to ensure its ecological stability.The assessment comes ahead of the winter season, when the Mahavihara campus is expected to witness a large congregation of Buddhist devotees for the annual World Peace Puja under the sacred tree. According to the spiritual calendar for winter 2026-27 released by the BTMC, the event is among the major religious gatherings scheduled during the season.
