Andhra University and Mahabodhi Society Launch Pioneering Meditation Centre
In a significant development for spiritual and educational enrichment, the Mahabodhi Society and Andhra University jointly inaugurated the Mahabodhi Mekapati Goutham Reddy International Centre for Meditation–Dhamma on the university campus in Visakhapatnam on Saturday. This state-of-the-art facility, constructed at a cost of nearly Rs 4 crore, stands as a tribute to the late Mekapati Goutham Reddy, former IT minister of Andhra Pradesh, who passed away due to a heart attack in 2022.
A Memorial Gift for Peace and Harmony
The centre was generously donated by former MP Mekapati Rajamohan Reddy and his wife Mani Manjari in memory of their son, Goutham Reddy. The couple expressed their heartfelt hope that this centre would serve as a dynamic platform to foster peace, happiness, and societal well-being, benefiting not only university students but also the broader public. Officials highlighted that this is the first meditation centre of its kind on a university campus in Andhra Pradesh, positioning it as a potential model for other educational institutions across the state.
Inauguration Ceremony and Attendees
The opening ceremony was attended by Mekapati Goutham Reddy's family, including his wife Keerthi Reddy, daughter Ananya Reddy, son Krishnarjuna Reddy, and brothers Vikram Reddy and Prudhvi Reddy. A poignant moment occurred with the unveiling of a statue of the late Goutham Reddy on campus, adorned with floral tributes. Following this, Buddhist monks conducted special prayers in the meditation hall, invoking peace and welfare for society, led by Mahabodhi Society president Guru Bante Kassap Mahtir Bante, executive director Anand Thir Bante, and in-charge Bikku Dharma Datt Bante.
Facilities and Design of the Centre
Spread over approximately 15,000 square feet, the centre boasts a comprehensive range of facilities designed to support meditation and spiritual growth. It includes a Dhamma (meditation) hall, a Vipassana meditation hall on the upper floor, five rooms for Buddhist monks, separate dormitories for male and female Vipassana participants, and a lift facility for accessibility. Additionally, a Tripitaka library is being established within the centre, enhancing its role as a hub for knowledge and reflection.
Designed as an international hub for meditation, the centre aims to provide a serene space for stress relief, knowledge acquisition, and inner peace, while actively promoting love and harmony in society. University authorities and Mahabodhi Society members were acknowledged for their unwavering support in bringing this visionary project to fruition, with expressions of gratitude extended during the event.
