Mahabodhi Temple, A Unique Blend of Indian and Bengali Architecture

Mahabodhi Paya, Bagan Nyaung U Main Road, Wetkyi In, Nyaung U Township, Nyaung U District, Mandalay, 100500, Myanmar

Each pagoda has a unique shape

4.1

Introduction

Located in the north, the Htilominlo King era-built Thatbyinnyu Temple is one of the unique examples of Indian and Bengali style architecture in Bagan. The main tower is triangular with multiple small towers surrounding it, and there are Buddha images carved on the three layers of the base. The tower's body has a pyramidal shape and is decorated with various Buddha images. The Mahabodhi Temple has a distinctive style and is easy to recognize. Unlike previous temples where Buddha statues were generally inside the towers, this temple exteriorized the statues and gradually became influenced by Indian culture. The tower of the pagoda has seven tiers, each representing a week of Buddha's seven weeks journey to enlightenment after his birth. The first tier depicts Buddha sitting under the Bodhi tree in his first week, while the second tier shows Buddha meditating under the tree. The third tier showcases Buddha walking on the golden bridge to achieve enlightenment, while the fourth tier portrays Buddha meditating in a house made of precious stones. The fifth tier depicts the three daughter-demons of Mara attempting to tempt Buddha while he was meditating under the Bodhi tree, but they ultimately failed. The sixth tier shows Buddha meditating under the Mucalinda tree with a snake wrapped around him to keep him warm and dry. The final seventh tier depicts Buddha meditating under the Rajayatana tree, where two merchants provide him with rice cakes and honey, and Buddha explains the Dharma and becomes their followers.