The mere sight of the statue from afar would make you feel a sense of warmth as it commands peace far and wide. The Tian Tan Buddha statue is found in Lantau Island, Hong Kong. Despite being the largest island in Hong Kong it is also where the 202 tonne bronze statue is found and venerated. Sensing the peaceful rays that the statue emanates is also Dorsett Mongkok Hong Kong. It is a Budget Hotel in Hong Kong that is situated 32 minutes away from the Tian Tan Buddha statue. The statue’s uniqueness is not limited to its size but also to the position of the Buddha and the direction it faces. Completed in 1993, this relatively modern statue has already made its mark on the map of anyone visiting Hong Kong.
Those who planned and constructed the statue would have intended it to glimmer and tint the landscape much like the setting sun. However, this representation of Lord Gautama is far from ordinary. The statue depicts Lord Buddha with his right hand help up, in a gesture that indicates the removal of all afflictions while the left hand rests on his lap. It is meant to symbolize generosity.
Lord Buddha’s teachings emphasize the cyclical nature of life and the sadness that paralyzes earthly beings. In order that man realizes the unending pain of existence, a large bell controlled by a computer rings 108 times from within the Tian Tan Buddha. Throughout the day all those who live or stay in close proximity to the statue would hear the artificial toll that symbolizes the escape from the ‘108 troubles of mankind’.
The statue is 34m high, which includes the statue, the lotus on which it is solidly laid and the podium that supports the Tian Tan Buddha. The podium has three levels that must be explored. On the first level, one would find six statues of the bodhisattva, while the second has a remarkable collection of oil paintings and ceramic plaques. The paintings recreate the holy life of the Buddha.
If you want to get the feeling that you are on a pilgrimage, it would be best to visit during April or May, when the Buddha’s birthday is celebrated.
Shehera Fioni is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Catalina Forbes. Her content is based on many thrilling escapades offered to travellers across the world.
