Dream of a place filled with happiness. That’s how the story of Vihara Mudita Center begins right here in Jakarta. It’s more than just a building. It is a realization of a profound dream.
Bhiksu Bhadra Pala, the head of Vihara Mudita Center, had a vision. While studying Pali and Buddhism in Sri Lanka, he yearned for a serene place for self-cultivation. This place should be away from the hustle. One night, he dreamt of a Vihara. This Vihara radiated joy and was named Mudita.
Mudita itself carries deep meaning. It embodies sympathetic joy. Feeling the happiness and even the pain of others. Extending compassion to those in need. From this dream, the idea of Mudita Center took root.
The motto of Vihara Mudita Center is clear. “Be a Bodhisattva for yourself and the others.” Another motto is “Marilah Bermudita Bersama Mudita Center”. It reflects its mission to serve and offer love to all. Bhiksu Bhadra Pala envisioned a Vihara. This Vihara should have a well-managed system and service. It should be artistic. It should also create a warm family atmosphere for its followers.
Many who visit the Vihara carry life’s burdens. Some say their hearts find peace here. Others, despite good deeds, still face troubles. This shows that the full benefits of a Vihara are not always felt. Especially when knowledge of Dharma is limited. Therefore, Vihara Mudita Center aims to fulfill everyone’s aspirations.
Vihara Mudita Center strives to create an atmosphere of joy and peace. Visitors can gain knowledge of Dharma. This knowledge can guide them through life’s difficulties. The hope is to create a joyful environment for all. A place that radiates warmth. A center that serves wholeheartedly. It provides the tools for happiness for everyone who comes to Vihara Mudita Center.
Bhiksu Bhadra Pala is inspired by turtles. Since childhood, he admired them. He learned a valuable life lesson from these creatures. The turtle’s philosophy is to walk slowly but surely. Move with careful consideration. The turtle uses its shell for protection. It lives with patience and humility. It adapts to both land and water. Like its cousin the sea turtle, it lives long. It roams freely in the ocean. The turtle guides us to navigate life’s challenges. With patience, humility and peace. This will help us live a long life.
Building Mudita Center required patience and perseverance. The turtle’s principle became his guide. “Slowly but surely”. Continuous effort leads to a bright outcome. It took four years to build. From the first pillar to the finished structure. It stands on 600 m2 of land. Located on Jalan Bisma Raya Blok A No. 68, Sunter Agung, North Jakarta. Just like drops of water filling a vessel. Small acts of attention and effort can realize a dream.
Bhiksu Bhadra Pala wasn’t alone in this endeavor. He was aided by committed individuals. Together, they developed a Vihara management system. It addresses the evolving needs of the times. Vihara Mudita Center is now ready to serve you with all its heart. The Vihara Mudita Center hopes to spread happiness. It also wants to spread peace to all.