Buddhism in Bangladesh facts for kids
Buddhism is a very old religion that started in India. In Bangladesh, it is the third largest religion. About 0.7% of the people in Bangladesh follow a type of Buddhism called Theravada Buddhism. Most of these followers live in the south-eastern part of Bangladesh, especially in the Chittagong Hill Tracts area.
Contents
What is Buddhism?
Buddhism is a religion and philosophy based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama. He was a prince who lived in ancient India a very long time ago. Buddhists believe in finding peace and happiness by understanding the world and themselves. They follow a path that teaches kindness, wisdom, and understanding.
Theravada Buddhism
There are different types of Buddhism, and the one most popular in Bangladesh is called Theravada Buddhism. This type of Buddhism is also common in countries like Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Myanmar. It focuses on the original teachings of the Buddha and is often seen as the oldest form of Buddhism.
Where do Buddhists live in Bangladesh?
Most Buddhists in Bangladesh live in the Chittagong area. This includes the main city of Chittagong and the nearby Chittagong Hill Tracts. This region is known for its beautiful hills and forests, and it has many Buddhist temples and monasteries.
Important Buddhist Places and People
Bangladesh has a rich Buddhist history. Many ancient Buddhist sites and important figures come from this region.
Ancient Buddhist Sites
One of the most famous Buddhist places in Bangladesh is the Somapura Mahavihara. This was a huge monastery and learning center built many centuries ago. It's one of the oldest Buddhist institutions in Bangladesh and shows how important Buddhism was in the past. Another important site is Mahasthangarh, where one of the earliest statues of Buddha was found. These places tell us a lot about the history of Buddhism in the area.
Famous Buddhist Figures
One important historical figure from this region is Atisha. He was a great Buddhist teacher and scholar who lived a long time ago during the Pala empire. He helped spread Buddhist teachings, especially in Tibet. His ideas are still followed by many Buddhists in Bangladesh today.
Images for kids
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The Somapura Mahavihara is the oldest Buddhist institution in Bangladesh.
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Buddha Dhatu Zadi, a Buddhist temple in Bandarban
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The earliest statue of Buddha found in Mahasthangarh
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Somapura Buddhist Vihar dates back to the 8th century AD during the rule of the Pala empire
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Atisha is one of the ancient priests from the Pala dynasty who is followed within the Bangladeshi Buddhist sects.
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Dipankara Srijan, president of the Chittagong Buddhist Association, as leader of a delegation at the 6th Buddhist council in Rangoon.
