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There’s A Rare And VVIP Tree In Madhya Pradesh And A Whopping ₹12L Is Spent On Maintaining It Annually

by Mallika Khurana
There’s A Rare And VVIP Tree In Madhya Pradesh And A Whopping ₹12L Is Spent On Maintaining It Annually

A remarkable Peepal tree that is situated on a hill in Salamatpur, Madhya Pradesh, holds a special place in the hearts of many people. It was planted in 2012 by the then-President of Sri Lanka, Mahinda Rajapaksa, and is referred to as India’s first “VVIP tree.” The sapling, which was imported from Sri Lanka, is very important to Buddhists because it is connected to the same Bodhi tree that Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment under. Recently, it was discovered that the state government spends ₹12L on its health and maintenance annually. 

India’s First VVIP Tree Is Situated In Madhya Pradesh

This Peepal tree is eight kilometres from the well-known Buddhist site Sanchi. It is protected 24 hours a day by four devoted guards. Its protection is ensured even during holidays and festivals by a 15-foot-high iron net surrounding it. The tree represents the Buddha’s attainment of enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, according to Buddhist spiritual leader Chandraratan. Emperor Ashoka’s daughter Sanghamitra transported and planted a sapling of the original tree in Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka. An offshoot of that tree now stands on the campus of Sanchi Buddhist University.

In order to keep the tree safe and healthy, the state does not cut any corners. A staggering amount of ₹12.48 lakh is spent on security each year, with each guard receiving a salary of ₹26,000 per month. Additionally, an exclusive water tanker takes care of its watering requirements. Representatives from the Agriculture Department also stop by to check on it to make sure everything is okay.

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This Tree Is A Popular Site For Heritage

Visitors and admirers come from all over the world to see this extraordinary peepal tree. It serves as a symbol of deeply ingrained cultural heritage and spirituality. The tree’s presence demonstrates the enduring connection between people, the natural world, and their spiritual heritage. Visitors from all over India and beyond travel to see this remarkable Peepal tree and pay their respects. It is a serene location for meditation and introspection because of the aura of serenity and spiritual significance it exudes.

This Peepal tree, which is India’s first “VVIP tree,” is a symbol of the enduring legacy of spiritual and cultural heritage that knows no boundaries. Its presence serves as a symbol of the enduring connection between people, the natural world, and the teachings of Gautam Buddha.

Cover Image Courtesy: Twitter/ruby sarkar