Buddhist Site
Ranghamati Rajbon Vihar
Ranghamati Rajbon Vihar, Ranghamati, Chottogram
Rajban Vihar, also known as the Rajbana Vihara, is a prominent Buddhist monastery located in Rangamati, Bangladesh. Established in 1977, the monastery was built under the guidance of the late Ven. Shrimath Sadhanananda Mahathera, commonly known as the "Banabhante" (meaning "the forest monk"), a revered monk in the Chakma community. His vision was to create a serene sanctuary for Buddhist monks and devotees in the natural beauty of the Chittagong Hill Tracts. The monastery was founded to provide a residence for the revered Buddhist monk, Venerable Sadhanananda Mahathero, commonly known as Bana Bhante. Born on January 8, 1920, Bana Bhante became a legendary figure in Bangladeshi Buddhism. In 1977, he moved to Rangamati from the Longadu region to live permanently at Rajban Vihar. His followers constructed the temple to accommodate him and his disciples The name "Rajban Vihar" translates to "the Royal Forest Monastery," which signifies its setting amidst lush forests and its spiritual importance to the local Chakma people. The monastery is an essential cultural and spiritual center for the Buddhist population in Bangladesh, particularly among the indigenous communities like the Chakma, Marma, and Tripura, who make up a significant portion of the population in the Hill Tracts. As one of the largest and most significant Buddhist monasteries in Bangladesh, it serves as a hub for religious teachings, meditation practices, and cultural events.
History
Spanning approximately 33.5 acres, the complex includes several temples, a meditation center, residential quarters for monks, a hospital, and a seven-story building symbolically representing the seven heavens. The architecture reflects traditional Buddhist design, harmoniously blending with the surrounding natural beauty of Kaptai Lake and lush greenery
Image: Ranghamati Rajbon Vihar
Architecture
Rajban Vihar is uniquely positioned on the banks of the picturesque Kaptai Lake, surrounded by lush greenery, hills, and serene water bodies, creating a tranquil environment that complements its religious purpose. The architectural design of the monastery reflects traditional Buddhist styles, with a grand stupa, multiple shrines, prayer halls, and a library. It serves as a hub for meditation, prayer, and study, attracting not only local devotees but also visitors and pilgrims from other parts of Bangladesh and neighboring countries.
Architectural Features
Rajban Vihar spans approximately 33.5 acres and comprises several structures, including:
Main Temple (Upasana Vihar): The central place of worship adorned with intricate designs reflecting local craftsmanship.
Seven-Storied Building ("Seven Heaven"): Each floor symbolizes a different level of heaven, embodying Buddhist cosmology.
Residential Quarters: Accommodations for monks and devotees, fostering a communal living environment.
Meditation Center and Library: Facilities dedicated to spiritual learning and practice.
Over the years, Rajban Vihar has become an important cultural center for the Chakma and Marma communities, the indigenous Buddhist ethnic groups of the Chittagong Hill Tracts. It preserves many aspects of their cultural traditions, practices, and values. In addition to religious activities, the monastery plays a significant role in social work and education, promoting literacy and healthcare within the local communities.
