Shravasti Buddha Vihar

Was Shravasti Buddha Vihar always here in Mumbai? No. The original Shravasti was the opulent capital of the ancient kingdom of Kosala, located in present-day Uttar Pradesh, near the Nepalese border. Our Shravasti Buddha Vihar here in Mumbai draws inspiration from that ancient city, revered as a pivotal center of Buddhism. The historical Shravasti, also known as Savatthi in Pali texts, was where the Buddha spent a significant portion of his life after enlightenment, delivering countless sermons and performing miracles that captivated his followers. Imagine the bustling city at the crossroads of major trade routes, its vibrant streets teeming with merchants, monks, and ordinary people, all drawn to the magnetic presence of the Buddha. In Shravasti, within the tranquil Jetavana Monastery, gifted by the wealthy Anathapindada, the Buddha shared his profound teachings, shaping the very foundations of Buddhist philosophy. It was here that he is said to have performed the “Great Miracle” and the “Twin Miracle”, extraordinary feats that solidified his spiritual authority. These miracles, depicted in ancient art and scriptures, often show the Buddha levitating, emitting fire and water from his body, or creating countless replicas of himself. While our Shravasti Buddha Vihar in Mumbai isn’t the original site, it serves as a poignant reminder of that ancient city’s significance. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of the Buddha’s teachings and a place where devotees can connect with the rich history of Buddhism.