A mound like structure made of empty cartridges attracts tourists in Bodhgaya

Bodhgaya (Bihar), July 24 (ANI): A unique mound-like structure called 'Stupa' made of empty cartridges from the Sri Lankan civil war has turned a major draw for tourists in Bodhgaya.

The Stupa was established in Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya this February to spread message of peace among the people in the world.

"A military group from Sri Lanka donated a Stupa made of empty cartridges. Like there was a war situation in Sri Lanka for the past 30 years and everybody all over the world was worried because of it. So we pray, that such kind of war never takes place, not only in our country but also no where in the world and peace prevails in the society," said Bhante Sivli Thero, a priest at Mahabodhi temple.

The Mahabodhi Temple Complex is one of the four holy sites related to the life of the Lord Buddha. Siddhartha Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, which is located in the temple complex.

It is one of the earliest Buddhist temples built entirely in brick and still standing. It is 52 meters high and has a 24 meters high Buddha statue.

The 1949 Bodhgaya Act recognised the site as a Buddhist holy place and in 2002, UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) declared the Mahabodhi Temple. By Surya Pratap Singh (ANI)