Kyauktawgyi Buddha Temple (Yangon)
The Kyauktawgyi Buddha Temple in Yangon, Myanmar, is renowned for housing the Loka Chantha Abhaya Labha Muni, a colossal 37-foot tall Buddha image carved from a single piece of white marble. This monumental sculpture, weighing approximately 560 tons, was transported from Mandalay to Yangon and consecrated in 2002, making the temple a significant religious site.
Key Facts
- ›Houses the 37-foot tall Loka Chantha Abhaya Labha Muni Buddha image.
- ›The Buddha image is carved from a single piece of white marble quarried in Madaya Township, Mandalay Region.
- ›The marble image weighs approximately 560 tons.
- ›The image was transported to Yangon via the Irrawaddy River on a specially donated barge.
- ›The temple is located on Mindhamma Hill in Insein Township, Yangon.
- ›The Buddha image was consecrated in February 2002.
Important Relationships
- State Peace and Development Council
- Senior General Than Shwe
- Kyaing Kyaing
- General Khin Nyunt
- 37-Foot Tall Loka Chantha Abhaya Labha Muni Buddha Image
- Carved From A Single Piece of White Marble
- Marble Image Weighs Approximately 560 Tons
- Abhayamudra Gesture
- Arrival of Marble Image At Gyogon, Insein Township On August 5, 2000
- Transportation of Image Atop Mindhamma Hill On August 10, 2000
- Consecration of the Buddha Image In February 2002
About Kyauktawgyi Buddha Temple (Yangon)
The Kyauktawgyi Buddha Temple, located on Mindhamma Hill in Insein Township, Yangon, Myanmar, is a significant Buddhist site primarily known for housing the Loka Chantha Abhaya Labha Muni Buddha image. This monumental statue stands an impressive 37 feet (11 meters) tall and is carved from a single piece of white marble, quarried from Sagyin Hill in Madaya Township, Mandalay Region. The colossal image weighs approximately 560 tons.
Construction and Transport
The creation and relocation of the Loka Chantha Abhaya Labha Muni were major undertakings. The marble image was transported from Mandalay to Yangon using a specialized railroad carriage, followed by a journey down the Irrawaddy River. A 200-foot long barge, donated by Metro Asia Myanmar, facilitated its river passage, pushed by three steamers and accompanied by a fleet of decorated ceremonial boats. The barge arrived at Gyogon, Insein Township, on August 5, 2000, to a large gathering of approximately 500,000 people, including prominent government officials such as Chairman Senior General Than Shwe. The final ascent to Mindhamma Hill was achieved using another special railway carriage, requiring four locomotives. The image was positioned at a location astrologically designated as an auspicious site.
Consecration and Significance
Following its arrival and careful placement, the partially carved image was fully finished and erected. The consecration ceremony for the Loka Chantha Abhaya Labha Muni Buddha image took place in February 2002. This Buddhist project was reportedly established as a donation intended to ensure the continued brightness and longevity of the Buddha Sasanar (Buddhist teachings). The Kyauktawgyi Buddha Temple is situated in proximity to the former Nine Mile Cemetery, adding a historical layering to its location.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main attraction at the Kyauktawgyi Buddha Temple?
The primary attraction is the Loka Chantha Abhaya Labha Muni, a massive 37-foot tall Buddha image carved from a single block of white marble. This impressive sculpture weighs around 560 tons.
Where was the marble for the Kyauktawgyi Buddha image quarried?
The white marble used for the Loka Chantha Abhaya Labha Muni Buddha image was quarried from Sagyin Hill in Madaya Township, Mandalay Region.
How was the large marble Buddha image transported to Yangon?
The massive marble image was transported by a special railroad carriage, then loaded onto a 200-foot long barge. This barge was pushed down the Irrawaddy River by steamers, making stops in major towns before reaching Yangon.
When was the Kyauktawgyi Buddha Temple and its main image consecrated?
The marble image was consecrated in February 2002. The project was reportedly a donation intended to sustain the Buddha Sasanar (Buddhist teachings) for future generations.
Where is the Kyauktawgyi Buddha Temple located?
The temple is situated on Mindhamma Hill in Insein Township, Yangon, Myanmar. It was built near the site of the former Nine Mile Cemetery.
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