We’ve seen many peer of the realm enjoying the special treatment, but a tree availing a VVIP treatment in India is something we don’t come across every day. The state government of Madhya Pradesh is spending Rs. 12 Lakh annually to protect this Banyan tree. The tree is merely five kilometres away from the Sanchi Stupa. It owns a dedicated water tank, four security guards, a fence and a Botanist, who pay it a regular visit every week to check on its health.
Actually, the tree was planted by Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa, five years ago. The reason behind the VVIP treatment of this tree is rather spectacular. Bhante Chandaratan from the Mahabodhi Society of India at Sanchi reveals that in 3rd century BC, a branch of original Bodhi tree, under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment was taken from India to Sri Lanka and planted in Anuradhapura.
The sapling was further taken from the holy tree in Sri Lanka and brought to India. According to the security guard at site, people used to visit the tree in large numbers a few years ago but now they’ve stopped showing up.
Four security guards and water has been allocated to the tree. The entire hill has been allotted to the Buddhist University. The whole area is being developed as a Buddhist Circuit.
The site where this tree was planted as a part of Sanchi University’s Buddhist-India Studies, which will come up at a cost of Rs. 300 crore. Currently, the university is operating in a rented building.
Amazing, isn’t it? A tree enjoying all the perks which we as humans can only dream about!
