Buddhist Site

Chitmaram Buddhist Monastery

Chitmaram Buddhist Monastery, Kaptai,Chittgong,Bangladesh

Chitmorom Buddhist Monastery, also known as Chit Moharom Buddha Bihar, is a significant religious site located in the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh. The Buddhist Vihara is located in Chitpuram Union No. 3 of Kaptai Upazila under Rangamati District of Chittagong [Bangladesh] Division. Bihar is located at a distance of 45 km from Chittagong headquarters. This monastery is renowned for its serene environment and its role as a center for Buddhist worship and cultural activities. The monastery is an important pilgrimage destination for Buddhists in Bangladesh and neighboring countries.

History

A small Buddhist temple was established in Chitpuram in 1852 AD on the initiative of the local Buddhist community. Chandra Chowdhury, grandfather of UP member Umang Chowdhury of Chitmaram Union of Kaptai founded the first Buddhist Vihara in 1905 AD. Then the Vihara was established on a small scale. In 1912 AD under the leadership of A. Parakham Mahather, this temple with two main temples was established on two low hills of 22 acres with financial help and manual labor. According to the statement of the present viharadhyaksha, this vihara was built on a 68 feet high 45x45 feet square area with precious wood in imitation of Burmese viharas under the leadership of Choaing or Mistri of Maskhalis in Cox's Bazar district.

 

In 1927, a Buddhist Burmese citizen came and settled in Chitmaram area. He spent his own money and brought various construction materials and construction artists from Rabama to beautify the Vihar. After that the Vihar remained the same for a long time. Between 1984 and 1998, the custodians of this monastery built a new Buddhist monastery with artistically and aesthetically crafted brick blocks a little south of the riverside area through voluntary work. During this time, the heavenly monk U Parakshama Mahathir served as the founding head of the old Buddhist monastery from 1905 AD to 1940 AD. After the death of monk U Parakshama Mahath, U Panditya Mahather served as the head of Bihar from 1940 to 1990 AD. After his death, U Pamokha Mahather, chief disciple of U Panditya Mahather, has been in charge since 1990 AD.

Image: Chitmaram Buddhist Monastery

Architecture

It is a traditional wooden building with an intricate, multi-tiered roof design, likely of Southeast Asian or Burmese architectural style. The following features stand out in the image: Roof Design: The most prominent feature is the multi-tiered, pagoda-like roof structure. Each tier is adorned with ornate, golden trim that highlights the edges and emphasizes the layered construction. This style is characteristic of Burmese or similar regional architecture, often associated with temples or significant historical buildings. Color Scheme: The building has a contrasting color scheme with dark wooden upper sections and white lower sections. The golden trim adds a touch of elegance and highlights the architectural details. Materials and Construction: The building appears to be constructed primarily from wood, with the lower sections possibly reinforced with concrete or plaster. The wooden panels are dark, possibly stained or naturally weathered, which adds to the traditional aesthetic. Staircase and Columns: A staircase with white balusters leads up to the entrance of the building. The columns supporting the structure are also white, providing a stark contrast to the dark wooden walls. Surroundings: The building is situated in a lush, green environment, surrounded by tall palm trees and dense foliage, suggesting a tropical or subtropical climate. This natural setting enhances the traditional and serene atmosphere of the structure. Additional Elements: In the foreground, there is a statue or figure, possibly a monk, situated near the base of the stairs, which further emphasizes the cultural and religious significance of the building. Overall, the image captures a serene and culturally rich architectural site, reflecting traditional Southeast Asian design elements and craftsmanship.

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