February 22, 2010

Mumbai : Global Vipassana Pagoda

The mangroves of Marve creek form the perfect frame for the golden-hued Global Vipassana Pagoda across the waters in Gorai.
At night, it looks almost ethereal... gleaming with soft lights that seem to reflect the stars.

If the newspapers are excited about it being one of Asia's largest pagodas (325' high), what I find even more fascinating is that in this modern age, here is a massive structure built of stone and lime mortar. That's right, no iron or cement used!

And even more amazing? The fact that the centre of the pagoda also has the world's largest stone dome built without any supporting pillars.
Imagine meditating under that!

(Post-script : I just wanted to add this photo of the pagoda taken from the other side of the backwaters, near Gorai)

12 comments:

  1. Wow! and that doesn't even begin to cover it!

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  2. You said it, Lisa! Every time I read a new fact about this pagoda, my eyes widen that bit more. I can't wait to go see it. And maybe indulge in some meditation there.

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  3. Yes Sunita, I am amazed at the palaces, pagodas and temples that were build.Unbelievable beautiful.

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  4. I know exactly what you mean, Trudi. I'm fascinated by them too.
    I think I forgot to add that this pagoda is new. Work on it started 11-12 years ago and was completed just last year.

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  5. The road-route specially the last 15 km is very nice And I am sure during early rainy season it will be all green all around And a nice driving towards Global Pagoda will be peace before reaching after reaching.

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  6. Hobo, that's just the incentive I needed (yeah, right! as if I needed one ;D ) to plan a trip there at the earliest. Or maybe I should wait for the monsoons to green up the route first.

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  7. Wait for first one/two showers And then the tour by road will be too good.

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  8. Sounds great! Thanks for the advice, Hobo.

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  9. Wow, statement architecture - impresssive

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  10. Yeah, isn't it, Tim? I was so excited about the methods they had employed to construct this. Almost like going back to one's roots.

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  11. Wow ! Great building and the gold top is very impressive. Beautiful views.
    Greetings

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    Replies
    1. Hello Ela. You're right, it does look very impressive. Much more than the photos convey, actually.

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