Buddhism in India

Buddhism originated in India over 2,500 years ago, and it was founded by Siddhartha Gautama, who later became known as Gautama Buddha. Buddhism remained a dominant religion in India for several centuries, with many influential Buddhist centers and universities located across the country. However, over time, Buddhism began to decline in India and was eventually supplanted by Hinduism and Islam.

Today, Buddhism is still practiced in India, although it represents a small minority of the population. The majority of Indian Buddhists are concentrated in the northern and eastern parts of the country, particularly in the states of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.

One of the most significant Buddhist sites in India is Bodh Gaya, located in the state of Bihar. This is where Gautama Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment while meditating under a Bodhi tree. Bodh Gaya remains a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists from around the world, and it is home to the Mahabodhi Temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Other important Buddhist sites in India include Sarnath, where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon, and Kushinagar, where he is said to have passed away. These sites, along with several others across the country, attract a large number of Buddhist pilgrims and tourists each year.

Overall, while Buddhism is not as prevalent in India as it once was, it remains an important part of the country’s religious and cultural heritage, and its influence can still be seen in various aspects of Indian society and culture.

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