SIKKIM: HH Dalai Lama likely to visit Sakyamuni project

December 9th, 2010

  

Gangtok: Construction work of the Sakyamuni project has progressed 90% and it will be finally completed by April 2011 at a total cost Rs.34.6 crores sanctioned by State Government, Mr. C. Zangpo Chief Engineer of Urban Development and Housing Department cum Technical Chief of Sakyamuni Project Committee told reporters Friday.

He said the Sakyamuni project in Rabong covers an area of 22.4 acres with its own eco-garden, tourist amenities along with a Buddha statue, the tallest in India.

The statue of Lord Buddha is being designed in a sitting position at a height of 95 feet. The total height of the statue will reach up to 130 feet after adding the base and throne making the statue on of the tallest Buddha statues in the world.

The project has already received international attention much in advance with thirteen relics of Lord Buddha from 13 different countries being handed over to the project committe.

The relics were handed over for the Sakyamuni project at the new Karma Thekchenling monastery at the Mane Chokerling complex at Rabong by a team of Thai monks led by venerable Jamnian Chonsakhorn Seelasettho, the chief of priests of the Thai monastery, Mr. Zangpo informed.

During his Sikkim visit in the middle of this month, HH Dalai Lama is likely to visit the place and stay one night at Rabong lodge, project area, it is informed.

It is further informed that during his visit the Tibetan spiritual leader may announce the date of inauguration of the project. After completion of the project, people will know it as ‘Tathagatha Preserve’ instead of Sakyamuni Project because His Holiness Dalai Lama has been changed the name of the project, Mr. Zangpo said. He said that around 7 kg gold being used in the statue, it will be seen as a golden one. Accommodation, worship facilities will be available in the area. Chief Minister Dr. Pawan Chamling is chairman of the Sakyamuni Project, Mr. DD Bhutia,Vice chairman, and Mr. TT Dorjee, Chief Secretary, President.

[FROM SIKKIM REPORTER / EDITED BY ASHOK CHATTERJEE]