December 2, 2009 – Gurpa, Bihar
His Holiness inaugurated and consecrated the Mitreya Bodhi Stupa, which is situated on top of a hill, within the Mahakassappa cave (Rewo Jakhang).
Rewo Jakhang, the Holy Kukkutta Padagiri, is located in Gurpa area of Bihar – a two hour drive from Bodhgaya.
Upon reaching Gurpa, the Stupa opening ceremony organizers and head of the local Indian village welcomed His Holiness.
After taking a short rest, His Holiness climbed up the hill towards the holy cave of Rewo Jakhang. The hike took almost an hour.
Bikkhu S.T. Annanda received His Holiness at the summit, and the opening ceremony was initiated after inaugurating the Stupa.
Bhikkuni Sik Tsi, the sponsor of the Stupa, as well as Master Ching Yao and many sangha members were present at the ceremony.
“We are blessed by His Holiness accepting the invitation and gracing the ceremony,” said Bhikku Annanda – of the Asian Buddhist Culture Center, Bodhgaya – and one of the main organizers of the event.
The Stupa was dedicated to Buddha Mitreya, Maha Kassappa and Arya Asanga. According to texts, the latter meditated for twelve years in this hill top cave.
