meraapnabihar, Author at meraapnabihar

A Brief History of Bhojpuri Film

1960-1970

The first Bhojpuri Film was ‘Ganga Maiyya Tohe Piyari Charaihbo’ which was released in 1961 by Vishwanath Shahabadi. Other films like ‘Jekra Charanwa mein lagal paranwa’, ‘Lage Nahi Chhute Ram, ‘Bhauji’, ‘Bidesia’, and ‘Loha Singh’ came later and did reasonably good business.

1970-1980

Later on in 1978, Ashok Jain gave a mush needed fillip to Bhojpuri Film with Sliver Jubalee Film ‘Dangal’. The respected actor Nazir Hussain also produced a very memorable film ‘Balam Pardesia’

1980-1990

The 80’s showered the Bhojpuri people with many notable as well as run of the mill film like ‘Bitia Bhail Sayan’ , ‘Chandwa ke take Chakor’, ‘Hamar Bhauji’, Ganga Kinare Mora Gaon’ – A very Popular Film, ‘Sonwa ke Pinjra’, ‘Senur’, ‘Ganga Ghat’, ‘Saiyya Tere Karan’, ‘Dharati Maiyya’ – Again a super success, ‘Ganag Maiyya Bhar de Ancharwa hamar’, ‘Piya Nirmohiya’, ‘Sampoorna Tirth Yatra’, ‘Bhaiya Dooj’, ‘ Bansuriya Baje’, ‘Ganga Ke Tir’, ‘Bairi sawan’, ‘Dulha Ganga par ke’, Ganga Mare Laheria etc…

1990-2000

Data not available but the production of Bhojpuri Film is not encouraging in this decade.

ProducersAshok Jain is the leading producer of the Bhojpuri Films. Vishwanath Shahabadi, Nazir Hussain, Mohan ji Prasad, Dilip Bose, K Pervez, Akabar Balm, Prem Kumar Dutta are very notable and successful Bhojpuri film maker.

History of Bhojpuri cinema

Bhojpuri cinema history begins in 1962 with the well-received film Ganga Maiyya Tohe Piyari Chadhaibo (“Mother Ganges, I will offer you a yellow sari”), which was directed by Kundan Kumar.Throughout the following decades, films were produced only in fits and starts. Films such as Bidesiya (“Foreigner”, 1963, directed by S. N. Tripathi) and Ganga (“Ganges”, 1965, directed by Kundan Kumar) were profitable and popular, but in general Bhojpuri films were not commonly produced in the 1960s and 1970s.

In the 1980s, enough Bhojpuri films were produced to tentatively make up an industry. Films such as Mai (“Mom”, 1989, directed by Rajkumar Sharma) and Hamar Bhauji (“My Brother’s Wife”, 1983, directed by Kalpataru) continued to have at least sporadic success at the box office. Nadiya Ke Paar is a 1982 Hindi-Bhojpuri blockbuster directed by Govind Moonis and starring Sachin, Sadhana Singh, Inder Thakur, Mitali, Savita Bajaj, Sheela David, Leela Mishra and Soni Rathod.The film ran houseful for years in a movie theatre in Allahabad. However, this trend faded out by the end of the decade, and by 1990, the nascent industry seemed to be completely finished.[3]

The industry took off again in 2001 with the “Silver Jubilee” hit Saiyyan Hamar (“My Sweetheart”, directed by Mohan Prasad), which shot the hero of that film, Ravi Kishan, to superstardom.This success was quickly followed by several other remarkably successful films, including Panditji Batai Na Biyah Kab Hoi (“Priest, tell me when I will marry”, 2005, directed by Mohan Prasad) and Sasura Bada Paisa Wala (“My father-in-law, the rich guy”, 2005). In a measure of the Bhojpuri film industry’s rise, both of these did much better business in the states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar than mainstream Bollywood hits at the time, and both films, made on extremely tight budgets, earned back more than ten times their production costs. Sasura Bada Paisa Wala also introduced Manoj Tiwari, formerly a well-loved folk singer, to the wider audiences of Bhojpuri cinema. In 2008, he and Ravi Kishan are still the leading actors of Bhojpuri films, and their fees increase with their fame. The extremely rapid success of their films has led to dramatic increases in Bhojpuri cinema’s visibility, and the industry now supports an award show and a trade magazine, Bhojpuri City, which chronicles the production and release of what are now over one hundred films per year. Many of the major stars of mainstream Bollywood cinema, including Amitabh Bachchan, have also recently worked in Bhojpuri films. Mithun Chakraborty’s Bhojpuri debut Bhole Shankar, released in 2008, is considered as the biggest Bhojpuri hit of all time. Also in 2008, a 21-minute diploma film Bhojpuri film by Siddharth Sinha, Udedh Bun (Unravel) was selected for world premiere at the Berlin International Film Festival, later it won the National Film Award for Best Short Fiction Film.
source: Wikipedia

Tourist Places in Rajgir

Rajgir was the place where Lord Buddha spent twelve long years in meditation. Literal meaning of Rajgir is ‘house of the king.’ It was the capital city of Magadha Empire till the time of Lord Buddha. Only in later phase Ajatshatru established his capital at Pataliputra which was strategically located. Rajgir is located at the distance of around forty six kilometers from Bodh Gaya, another Buddhist pilgrimage.

Rajgir is equally important and relevant for Buddhists, Jainas and Hindus. Mahavira had spent some time at this spot before getting Kevalya. Mahavira, the twenty fourth tirthankar of Jain sect, had spent around fourteen long years meditating. It makes Rajgir a popular pilgrimage for Jainas too.

Rajgir was the venue for first Buddhist Council. The council was held at Saptparni caves. There was a famous monastery at Jivkamaravana and Lord Buddha often visited this monastery out of love and affection. The development and popularity of Buddhism among local population, particularly among trading class was immense and they helped Rajgir become the center of Buddhist activities. Famous surgeon and Buddhist follower Jivaka lived here and contributed towards the growth of Buddhism.

Rajgir has many tourist attractions including of Griddhakuta hill, the place which saw the conversion of Magadha king Bimbisara to Buddhism. Other places such as the Jail of Bimbisara, Gym of Jarasandha, Venuvana, Karand tank, Maniyar math, Swamabhandar cave, Pippala cave, newly constructed Viswa Shanti Stupa are some major tourist attractions at Rajgir. Rajgir houses some twenty six temples of Jain sect in its hill area and one need to be good in trekking to reach to them.

Rajgir is part of Buddhist Tourist Circuit and is linked with other Buddhist pilgrim destinations which are relevant for Buddhists across the globe. Rajgir is just ten kilometres away from Nalanda, another Buddhist pilgrim destination of great relevance. King Bimbisar donated a monastery to Lord Buddha for his residence at Rajgir called Venuvana Vihar. Remnants of that construction can be seen even today.

How to reach Rajgir

Rajgir, the place where Lord Buddha spent a significant part of his life, is a popular pilgrim destination for Buddhists across the world. The place also served as the meditation center for Lord Mahavir Jain, the twenty fourth tirthankar of Jain religion. Being the center for the growth and development of two popular religions Rajgir attracts a large number of visitors. Rajgir is a part of Buddhist Circuit and for that reason is well connected with other destinations.

By Rail
Rajgir railway station is linked with other cities by a whole range of trains. The place is well linked with Gaya and from Gaya you can board trains for Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, and Bangalore. After getting down at Gaya, which is just 34 kilometers away, you can hire taxis for Rajgir.

By Air
Gaya is the nearest airport from Rajgir. There are frequent flights from Gaya to other metro cities of India. You can get down at Gaya and from there board buses or taxis for Rajgir. Other than Gaya, Patna airport is another good option. Patna is well connected with other metro cities of India and some major cities of world.

By Road
Rajgir is linked with most of the cities of Bihar by road network. There are regular bus services from Patna, Nalanda to Rajgir. Other than buses run by State Tourism Department, some private tourist operators too have bus services of their own. You can hire taxis from these places for better and comfortable journey to Rajgir.Rajgir Weather:

Summer: Max: 44.5 ºC; Min: 20.5 ºC
Winter: Max 28 ºC; Min: 5 ºC
Rainfall: 214 cm annually
Best season: Oct-Feb
Clothing: Cotton clothes during summer and woolen during winters.

Rajgir the ancient capital of Magadha kings was once the epicenter of religious and political activities. Later on king Ajatshatru chose Pataliputra over Rajgir for Pataliputra was strategically located. Lord Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, spent a significant time here at Rajgir. He stayed and meditated and delivered many sermons to his disciples. Similarly Mahaivr Jain of Jain sect stayed and meditated at Rajgir.

Summer
As Rajgir is situated in tropical region the weather condition is typical of any tropical city. Summers are hot and humid. Temperature reaches at 45 degree Celsius. Wile traveling to Rajgir in summer, you must carry light cotton clothes.

Winter
Winter is the best season to visit Rajgir. Days are pleasing and nights a bit cold during winter season. You must carry warm woolen clothes while exploring Rajgir in winter.

Monsoon
Rajgir receives a lot of rain during Monsoon months. Rains bring freshness and the small hillocks become more picturesque and attractive during monsoon.

Rajgir Tourist Attractions

The ancient capital of Magadha, Rajgir is an important Buddhist and Jain pilgrim destination. Rajgir was the hotpot of political and religious activities in ancient India, still has relevance in modern times. Both, Lord Buddha and Mahavir Jain spent a significant portion of their lives at Rajgir. King Bimbisar even donated a monastery to Lord Buddha.

Rajgir has number of tourist destinations to see. Many of them are relevant and important for Buddhists and Jain followers and some are important for Hindus too. Gymnasium of Jarasandh and Bimbisar, Saptparni caves, Gridhkut hills, and Jivakameavan Gardens are major tourist attractions at Rajgir.

Gymnasium of Jarasandh
Jarasandh, a mythological fighter of Mahabharat, is said to have his gym at Rajgir. Legend tells us that Bhim had defeated Jarasandh in one of their duels. Though historically it can not be proved, local belief of the fact has to be accepted.

Ajatshatru Fort
Ajatshatru, who ruled Magadha, built a fort here. Other than that fort, there is one Stupa which is believed to have been built by Ajatshatru is a major attraction at Rajgir.

Shanti Stupa
Named for the mission of establishing world peace, the Vishwa Shanti Stupa is located at an altitude of 400 meter. Built in marble, the stupa is adorned by four statues of Lord Buddha from four side-corners. You can reach to the spot by ropeway.

Cyclopean Wall
The Cyclopean wall was meant for the fortification of the capital city of Rajgir. Earlier it was 40 Km long and encircled ancient Rajgir. The construction of the wall is of stones. This Pre-Maurayan structure is a major tourist attraction among tourists. Though not in existence in its glorious form, its traces are still there and boast the grandeur of its existence at some point of time.

Sonbhandar Caves
There are numerous folklores of mysteries associated with these caves. There are two halls inside the cave and as believed one of them served as guard room and another as treasure room. Local people are of opinion that some treasure from Bimbisar is still safe inside the cave. People try to get some clue from a non-deciphered inscription. Besides the treasure theory of Sonbhandar caves, the spot has great attraction for its historical links with Bimbisar of Magadha.

Venu Vana
Lord Buddha had become popular during his life time and had earned a good many disciples among whom some were rulers. One of such rulers was king Bimbisar of Magadha. Bimbisar, out of respect, donated a monastery to Lord Buddha which is called Venuvana Vihar.

Bimbisar Jail
Bimbisar, a staunch follower of Lord Buddha, suffered a lot from his own son, Ajatsatru. Ajatshatru imprisoned his father Bimbisar and asked him to choose the place of imprisonment. King Bimbisar chose this spot as from here he could see Lord Buddha everyday.

Jain Temples
Rajgir is as important for Jain followers as the Buddhists. In and around the Rajgir hill, there are 26 temples which can be reached by trekking on the mountain. Here comes the real test of your stamina to climb the peaks.

Chariot Route Marks
The mysterious rock cut in the form of two parallel furrows deep into rock for about thirty feet are worth visiting. According to local beliefs, the cut is the path of Lord Krishna’s chariot. When Lord Krishna visited Rajgir owing to the power and force and speed of his chariot the root became like this. Another attraction at the place is a non deciphered script dating from the 1st to 5th century AD, engraved in the rock around the chariot marks.

Pippala cave
There are hot springs and above the hill is the cave Pippala in Vaibhava Hill. These caves are not man made but natural. These were, according to some historians, were used as watch towers and later housed monks.

Bodh Gaya or Bodhgaya

Bodh Gaya or Bodhgaya (Hindi :??????) is a religious place in Gaya district in the Indian state of Bihar. It is famous for being the place of Gautama Buddha’s attainment of Enlightenment.

Historically, it was known as the Bodhimanda (ground around the Bodhi-tree), Uruvela, Sambodhi, Vajrasana and Mahabodhi. The name Bodh Gaya did not come into use until the 18th century. The main monastery of Bodhgaya used to be called the Bodhimanda-vihara (Pali). Now it is called the Mahabodhi Temple.

For Buddhists, Bodh Gaya is the most important of the main four pilgrimage sites related to the life of Gautama Buddha, the other three being Kushinagar, Lumbini, and Sarnath. In 2002, Mahabodhi Temple, located in Bodh Gaya, became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The surrounding town, by contrast, is dusty, noisy and somewhat polluted, due in large part to a lack of proper administrative structural coordination and rampant local corruption.[3] A new development plan has been proposed to “ensure a sustainable and prosperous future” for Bodh Gaya, but has become controversial because such a plan may require the relocation of whole neighborhoods.

Tourist Places in Bodh Gaya

Bodh Gaya or Bodhgaya is a religious place in Gaya district in the Indian state of Bihar. It is famous for being the place of Gautama Buddha’s attainment of Enlightenment.

Historically, it was known as the Bodhimanda (ground around the Bodhi-tree), Uruvela, Sambodhi, Vajrasana and Mahabodhi.

(1) The name Bodh Gaya did not come into use until the 18th century. The main monastery of Bodhgaya used to be called the Bodhimanda-vihara (Pali). Now it is called the Mahabodhi Temple.

For Buddhists, Bodh Gaya is the most important of the main four pilgrimage sites related to the life of Gautama Buddha, the other three being Kushinagar, Lumbini, and Sarnath. In 2002, Mahabodhi Temple, located in Bodh Gaya, became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

(2) The surrounding town, by contrast, is dusty, noisy and somewhat polluted, due in large part to a lack of proper administrative structural coordination and rampant local corruption.

(3) A new development plan has been proposed to “ensure a sustainable and prosperous future” for Bodh Gaya, but has become controversial because such a plan may require the relocation of whole neighborhoods.

Bodh Gaya is the place where Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment under the sacred Asvatta tree (later termed Bodhi Tree). Buddhists all across the world consider the place the most sacred and this has become a pilgrim destination for them. Buddhists from all over the world have built temples here in Bodh Gaya. Bodh Gaya is located about 13 km from Gaya, 90 kilometers away from Patna, and 450 km west of Kolkata.

Bodh Gaya houses a splendid and magnificent Mahabodhi temple and the temple has Bodhi Tree. Both the temple and the Bodhi Tree are sacred for Buddhists across the globe. The temple is an architectural amalgamation of many centuries, cultures, and heritages. While its architecture has a distinct stamp of the Gupta era, it has later ages inscriptions describing visits of pilgrims from Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and China between seventh and 10th century AD. It is perhaps still the same temple Hieuen Tsang visited in 7th century.

In the year 1953, Bodh Gaya revisited its glory. A new stupa with the help of Japanese governments’ donation was built in Gaya. Buddhists from Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar, Bhutan, Korea, and Japan often visit to Bodh Gaya. Now one can see many Buddhist monasteries in and around the complex. Tourism peaks during winter season.

How to Reach Bodh Gaya:

Bodh Gaya is included in four most important pilgrim destinations where a Buddhist has to visit in lifetime. Bodh Gaya is the place where Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment. Bodh Gaya today attracts tourists from all across the globe including of Korea, Japan, Singapore, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka. All the modern mode of transport connects the place with other places of the country. Easy accessibility makes this place a popular tourist destination.

By Rail:
A good railway network connects Bodh Gaya with other major cities of India. A whole range of trains is available to reach Bodh Gaya. Gaya is the nearest railhead to Bodh Gaya at the distance of 17 kilometers. Besides ordinary trains, Indian Railway has introduced a Bodh Gaya special ‘Buddha Parikrama Express’ specifically meant to cater Buddhist spiritual tourists. The train links all the important places relevant to Buddhists.

By Road:
Besides a good network or railway tracks, Bodh Gaya is well connected by roads to various cities of India. The main bus stand is near Sujata Bridge on the bank of Falgu River on the northeastern edge of the town. Gaya is the nearest transport hub which is connected with Grand Trunk Road and from where you can catch direct busses to reach Patna, Nalanda, Rajgir and Varanasi. Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation also runs buses from Patna- Bodhgaya route twice a day.

By Air:
Gaya is the nearest airport from Bodh Gaya. It is located at a distance of 17 kilometers. Various domestic airlines operate from Gaya to other metro cities of India. You can also land at Patna and board taxis and buses to reach Bodh Gaya which is around 135 kilometers from Patna.

Bodh Gaya Tourist Attractions:

Bodh Gaya, being the place where Gautam Buddha had learnt the eternal truth, is a popular tourist destination among Buddhists across the globe. There are a number of Buddhist monuments, temples and monasteries to see in Bodh Gaya.

Bodhi Tree
Contrary to general belief the existing Bodhi Tree is not the original Bodhi Tree under which Sidhartha Gautam had enlightenment. The existing tree is of fifth generation of original Bodhi Tree.

Gurpa
Gurpa is located forty kilometers from Bodh Gaya. Gurpa is a small village, albeit important for Buddhists. According to Buddhist literature Maha Kassap, the disciple of Lord Buddha realized that his death was nearing and he started moving toward the hill where he wanted to take his last breath.

Mahabodhi Temple
The fifty meter high Mahabodhi Temple was built during the rule of the Guptas in the 5th century. This temple is considered among the oldest in Indian sub-continent temples.

Pragbodhi
Pragbodhi is the place where Lord Buddha spent some time before attaining enlightenment. The place is evidence of Gautam Buddha’s efforts toward the eternal truth.

Bodh Gaya Weather:
The city of Bodh Gaya is located at an altitude of 24º 41′ 45” N. Latitude and 85º 2′ 22” E. Longitude. Let’s have a quick look at the weather and climatic conditions of Bodh Gaya.

Places of Interest in Nalanda

Founded in the 5th century BC, Nalanda was one of the world’s great universities and an important Buddhist centre. When renowned chinese scholar and traveller Hieun Tsang visited Nalanda between 685BC and 762BC, 10,000 monks and students resided here. Nalanda was frequently visited by Lord mahavira and lord Buddha in the 6th century BC.

Patna, 90 km away is the nearest airport. Nalanda can be reached by rail and road from other major towns of Bihar.

Nalanda university archaeological complex
The entire excavation area stretches to around 14 hectares. The buildings are divided by a central walkway that goes north to south. On either side of this walkway one can find monasteries and temples. A small chapel retains a half broken statue of the Buddha.

The Nalanda archaeological museum
This place houses the Nalanda university seal, sculptures and other remains found at the site. It also contains a number of small Buddhist and Hindu bronzes and some undamaged statues of the Buddha.

Nava Nalanda Mahavira
This is a relactively new institute, which is devoted to the study of pali literature and buddhism. A number of foreign students come here to study.

Hieun Tsang memorial hall
One of the newest buildings here, it was built as a peace pagoda by the chinese. Hieun tsang spent 5 years here as student and teacher.

Places of Interest in Vaishali

As long ago as the 6th century BC, Vaishali was the capital of a republic. it is credited with being the world’s first republic to have elected member of an assembly. Mahavira, the founder of jainism, was born here, and the Buddha preached his last sermon here. It also has a small musuem.

Regular bus services connect Vaishali to Patna (55 km). Nearest railheads are Hajipur (35 km) and Muzaffarpur (36 km). Nearest airport is Patna.

The Lion Pillar at Kolhua, was built by Emperor Ashoka. It is made of a highly polished single piece of red sandstone, surmounted by bell shaped capital, 18.3m. high. A life-size figure of a lion isplaced on top of the pillar. The pillar is well-preserved and intact. There is a small tank here known as Ramkund. One can also find a few dilapidated stupas in Vaishali.

Sonepur Mela

Sonepur Mela is the one of largest cattle fairs of the world. It is a historical and ancient event celebrated every year on bank of pious confluence of Gandak and the Ganges river, on the back drop of Harihar Nath Temple. On Kartik Purnima lacs of Devotees flock to offer prayer at this temple after taking a holy dip in the river.

The mela has its origins during ancient times. This is when Chandragupta Maurya used to buy elephants and horses across the river Ganges. The Sonepur Cattle Fair once used to attract traders from places as distant as Central Asia.

Nearly all animals can be bought at the Sonepur mela from all breeds of dogs to camels to buffaloes, donkeys, ponies, monkeys, chimps, Persian horses, sheep, rabbits, bears, cats, and guinea pigs. All varieties of birds, poultry and fishes are also available. The area that attracts all, however, is the one where elephants are lined up for sale. The Sonepur Fair is the only one where such a large number of elephants are sold. Numerous stalls are also set up at the grounds of the Sonepur Fair. You will find a wide variety of goods in these stalls, ranging from garments, to weapons and furniture to toys, utensils and agricultural implements to jewelry and handicrafts. Another major attraction is the sight of numerous elephants, beautifully decorated for the purpose of sale.

Originally, the venue of the fair was Hajipur and only the performance of the puja used to take place at the Harihar Nath temple of Sonepur. However, under the rule of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, the venue of the fair got shifted to Sonepur. The temple of Harihar Nath is believed to have been originally built by Lord Rama, on his way to the court of King Janak to win the hand of Mata Sita. It is further said that Raja Man Singh later got the temple repaired. The Harihar Nath temple, as it stands today, was built by Raja Ram Narain, an influential person during the late Mughal period.

Gajendhra Moksha legend is associated with the temple in Sonepur. It involves the story of king Indra Yamuna and the Gandharva chief Huhu, who were turned into an elephant and a crocodile respectively by the curse of great sages Agasthya and Dewala Muni. One day the elephant’s leg was bitten by the crocodile. It is said that both of them fought hard for many years with their herds. But ultimately the King Elephant lost his strength and prayed to the Supreme God Vishnu (Hari) to save him. Vishnu heard his prayer and cut down the crocodile with his Chakra. But the touch of the chakra released Huhu from the curse. Vishnu also released Indra Yamuna from his curse and took him to his aboard Vaikuntha.

Sonepur is well connected by road to the nearby City of Chapra, Hajipur, and cities. Sonepur is 25 kilometers from Patna, which is well connected by air, rail and road to the other parts of the country. Sonepur is well connected by Rail links and it is one of main Junction on north eastern railways connecting New Delhi to Guwahati.

The Mela is administered by Chapra District Administrator with due support from Bihar Govt. The promotion of Mela is done by the Tourism Ministry of Bihar. The administration arranges sanitation, drinking water facilities, health and welfare camps for the visitors.

Sonepur Mela gets very wide publicity in media world wide. Foreign news agencies provide good coverage of all the activities.

‘By reinventing Bihar Tourism, we hope to give a boost to the tourism sector’

Vinay Kumar IAS, director, Department of Tourism, Government of Bihar spoke to Joy Roy Choudhury of the dept’s major plans

What are the major tourism infrastructure development projects being implemented in the state now?

For the first time, a comprehensive Tourism Policy has been formulated and is being implemented. Tourism has been accorded the status of industry in the state, and a Tourism Protection Force shall be in existence very shortly. Very serious and planned steps have been taken to build, improve and renovate infrastructure. Selection and training of tourist guides are under way. A Tourism Enterprise Survey has been conducted with the assistance of Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. Two more studies, namely, Visitor’s Motivation Survey and Visitor’s Expenditure Surveys, are under consideration. Buddhist circuit roads are to be converted into four-lane highways with the cooperation from the Japan International Cooperation Agency. There are also plans for empanelment of travel businesses and complete overhaul of Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC). Major infrastructure projects include creation of meditation and convention centres in Bodhgaya and Rajgir, development of circumambulatory paths in Bodhgaya and Rajgir, development and beautification of all tourist sites, creation of new sites, and development of tourism-related roads and wayside amenities.

How are you promoting the Buddhist circuit in the state?

The Department of Tourism intends to promote, among others, the Buddhist heritage, the Jain circuit, rural tourism, the Sufi circuit, Gangetic and eco-tourism. Bihar Tourism believes that Bihar is to the Budhhists what Saudi Arabia is to the Muslims.

We organised a two-day International Buddhist Conclave in Nalanda in February this year in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. Over 150 foreign delegates, mainly drawn from south-east and east Asian countries, were invited. We attend all major tourism events in the country and the London and Berlin events abroad. BSTDC has prepared special Buddhist packages which have been a hit. We hold Rajgir and Bodhgaya Festivals in the months of December and January which have become reputed. We are initiating negotiations with major airlines of Buddhist countries to bring regular and chartered flights to Bodhgaya. The Mahaparinirvana Express, run by the IRCTC, has been another powerful vehicle to bring tourists to the state.

The state government is advocating Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) to promote tourism in the state. Tell us about the major private-sector projects under implementation/on the anvil in the state.

As I mentioned earlier, tourism enjoys the status of industry in the state and by virtue of it all major policy concessions and exemptions are available to tourism ventures of the private sector. An important example of private-public partnership is the Ganga Cruise, which is quite popular among foreign tourists. Another such partnership in the making is setting up of star-category hotels on properties of BSTDC on long-term lease basis.

How are you planning to position the state as a favourable tourism destination for both domestic and foreign tourists?

Bihar currently receives about four and a half lakh foreign tourists every year. By reinventing Bihar Tourism, improving the infrastructure and building up the brand image, we hope to give a boost to the tourism sector.

Bihar Government has been trying hard to provide employment opportunities to the educated unemployed youths of the state. Selection and training of guides is one important initiative. Promotion of various tourism enterprises in hotel and restaurant businesses will be the main focus of the government.

Gaya – A Main Tourist Attraction of Bihar

Summary

District – Gaya
Commissionery – Magadh
Headquarter – Gaya
Sub-Division – Gaya Sadar, Sherghati, Tekari
Population – 26, 64,803 (27 Lacs)
Area – 4,941 Sq. Km
Sea Level – 113 Meter
Temperature –
Summer: 46°C – 18°C
Winter: 20°C– 4°C
Best Season – November – February
Road Route – 112 Km from Patna
Rail Route – Main Railway Station – Patna, Gaya
Nearest Railway Station – Gaya (16 Km),
(458 km from Kolkata; 220 km from Varanasi; 589 km from Puri)
Air Route – Main Airport – Patna
Nearest Airport – Gaya

Main Spots of Tourist Interest

Brahamyoni Mountain
Dungeshwari Mountain
Rock-cut-Sculpture of Kauodol Hills
Ruins of Buddhist Monastery Hills Base & Buddhist Temple
Ruins of Buddhist Monastery, Top of Kauodol Hills
Gaya Museum

Histrocial Importance

Situated on the bank of river Falgu, Gaya is one of the ancient city in India. In Gaya only Bramhayoni and Dungeshwari Hills are related to Buddhist Circuit, where Lord Buddha came before his enlightenment, in search of Nirvana.
Today Gaya is mainly known as for Hindu circuit. Gaya is recognised as a holy city from ancient period. According to legend, Lord Vishnu endowed a celestial being named Gaya with the powers to absolve from sin all those who approached him. The devine Gaya was also empowered to raise the devout to the heavens so that they might join their ancestors. On the bank of river falgu very large number of pilgrims offer Pindan (Funeral cakes) at the ghats and perform a lengthy circuit of holy places around Gaya, to free their ancestors from bondage to the earth.

Places of Tourist Interests

Brahmayoni Mountain

Location: Brahmayoni hill is situated 1 km south of Vishnupada temple and its description is found in BuddhistBrahmayoni Mountain literature. To reach Brahmayoni hill one had to ascend 424 steps.

Importance: In Brahmyoni Mounain range there are 3 mountain peaks. Middle mountain peak in related to Buddhist Circuit & Right side Brahmayoni Mountainmountain peak is related to Hindu circuit.
Before enlightenment Gautam Buddha spent few days on this mountain, from this place Buddha reached the Sujata Place (Now in Bakraur, Bodhgaya) & from this place went to Dungeshwari Hills & then Bodhgaya to sit under Bodhi tree.
Now on this holy place we can see Ashoka stupa, a huge statue of Lord Buddha and Holy footprints on the hill. It is believed that ‘Ashoka the Great’ had got constructed a stupa here in the memory of Lord Buddha.
There are two interconnected narrow caves on the hill —Brahmayoni and Matriyoni. There is a belief that if one passes through the caves he would become free from the cycle of life and death.
Bihar Government has marked Brahmayoni hill as a ‘protected monument’. On the middle of peak there is an Ashokastupa and on its right temple of Brahma temple have been set up.

Dungeshwari Mountain

Location: Near to Bakraur (Sujata Place) on the other bank of falgu river, 32 km from Gaya, on the Gaya – Jamuawa – Surhari More- road route.

Importance: Lord Buddha came here from Sujata Place. On this place ‘devine powers’ suggested him to go to Bodhgaya for enlightenment. This mountain was known as ancient ‘Pragbodhi mountain’.
On the top of the mountain there are 7 ruins of Ashoka stupa. In the middle of the mountain, there is a Buddhist Temple & Hindu Temple, attract large no. of tourist on this holy place.

Rock-Cut-Sculptures of Kauvadol Hills

Location: Kauvadol Hills in 32 km far from Gaya District Headquarter, 20 km from Bela & 6 km from south-westRock-Cut-Sculptures of Kauvadol Hills Barabar caves (Jehanabad). Kauva Dol Hills is situated about a mile south-west of Barabar Hills, situated north-east of Belaganj block.

Importance: From the mound here remains of an ancient temple have been found. From the base of Kauadol mountain a large number of stone idols of Hindu god and goddess have been found. A ‘Gaumukhi Shivalinga’, a ‘Bansha bull’ considered to be carrier of Lord Shiva, has been found from the base of the mountain near tomb of Pir. It is believed that Kauadol (Kurisarai) was a town of Northern Gupta period (6-7th century BC) and it was named as Shramanpur. Chinese traveller Rock-Cut-Sculptures of Kauvadol HillsHieun-Tsang had mentioned ‘Shilbhadra Mahavihar’ which is believed to be at this place only. ASI-Branch-3, Patna team has expressed hope that here remains of Northern Gupta period to mid-term might be found.
On the rocks of the northern and eastern face of Kauva Dol Hill, numberous figures representing mostly Hindu deities like Hara-Gauri, Mahishasuramarddini Durga, Ganesa etc. A few figures of the seated Buddha are also noticed viz of Vajrasattva, Prajnaparamita and a seated Buddha. The sculptures may be assigned to a period between 800 to 1200 A.D. At Barabar Hills the passage leading to the Holy ‘Siddheshwarnath temple’ are ancient rock cut sculptures or Shiva Linga, Shiva Parvati, Ganesha etc. The image of the goddess Durga are how ever largest in number at Kauva Dol Hills. the four armed Durga slaying the buffalo demon Mahishasura. Other Brahmanical Figures are also noticed.

Ruins of Buddhist Monastery Hills Base & Buddhist Temple
Location: Kauvadol Hills in 30 km far from Gaya District Headquarter, 20 km from Bela & 6 km from south-west Barabar caves (Jehanabad). Kauodol is situated north-east of Belaganj block. Ruins of Buddhist Monastery is situated in the base of Kauva Dol Hills which is situated about a mile south-west of Barabar Hills.

Importance: It is considered important for its archaeological finds. In the 4th century BC it was a ‘training centre’ for young Buddhist monks, who were called ‘Shamner’. During that period this was training centre for not only Magadh area but for whole central area. In the 4th century BC Sramanpur was a township.
At the base of the Kauadol hill archaeological remains can still be found. According to historian Wenglar, the place was sanctum sanctorum of the temple — where one mandap, a semi-mandap and a maha-mandap existed. Till 1902 here 13 mandap existed and now only 9-10 mandap could be seen. Kauva Dol has been identified as the site of the ancient ‘monastery of Silbhadra’. This place was visited by Hiuen-Tsang in the 7th century. The Bodhisattva touched the earth when Mara challenged him. Exhorting the Earth goddess to appear to witness his enlightenment. Following excavation by the ASI and Bihar ASI, an eight-feet statue of Lord Buddha could be found in ‘Bhoomisparsh’ (ground-touching) posture.

Buddhist Temple – Near Buddhist Monastery, Kauvadol
Location: Kauvadol Hills in 32 km far from Gaya District Headquarter, 20 km from Bela & 6 km from south-westBuddhist Temple,Kauvadol Barabar caves (Jehanabad). Kauodol is situated north-east of Belaganj block and the base of Kauadol hill. Buddha Temple is situated in the base of Kauva Dol Hills which is situated about a mile south-west of Barabar Hills

Importance: The colossal image of Lord Buddha in Bhumi-sparsamudra is of Silbhadra monastery. Silbhadra was a learned Buddhist of the royal family of Samatata.
This is one of the largest satues of Buddha extant and is in fair preservation except that a portion of the halo has been broken the figure is about 8 feet high with a breadth of 4 feet across the shoulders and 6 feet across the knees.

Ruins of Buddist Monestery, Top of Kauvadol Hills
Location: Kauvadol Hills in 32 km far from Gaya District Headquarter, 20 km from Bela & 6 km from south-westTop of Kauvadol Hills Barabar caves (Jehanabad). Kauodol is situated north-east of Belaganj block. Ruins of Buddhist Monastery is situated on top of Kauva Dol Hills which is situated about a mile south-west of Barabar Hills
Importance: Beside one of the mountain hills of Kauvadol, on the top, there is ruins of Buddhist monastery. Several stones pillars, parts of doorway are seen hither & thither on the top of hill & near to top.

Gaya Museum
Location: Situated in the heart of the town of Gandhi Maidan, Gaya.
Importance: The museum has been declared as Gaya Museum-cum-Magadh Cultural Centre with a view to collect, display and make available all the relevant information regarding living cultural heritage of the region under one roof.
The museum preserves about 2000 antiquities of varied nature. The rich collection of stone sculptures especially of Pala period is rare and outstanding. Besides, the Museum also possesses a good collection of coins of different periods (punch marked to medieval