The Budh-Gaya Temple Case

The Budh-Gaya Temple case was a significant legal and religious struggle led by Anagarika Dharmapala, Jaipal Gir, and others to reclaim the Mahabodhi Temple, the site of Buddha’s enlightenment, from Hindu control. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the temple was managed by Hindu Mahants, which marginalized its Buddhist significance. Dharmapala, a prominent Buddhist revivalist, and his allies argued for restoring Buddhist custodianship, emphasizing the temple's spiritual and cultural importance to Buddhists worldwide. The case drew international attention, with Dharmapala gaining support from Buddhist communities across Asia. Despite legal challenges and resistance from the Hindu Mahants, the movement underscored the broader struggle for Buddhist identity and heritage during colonial rule.