Tucked away in the lanes of Worli in Mumbai is the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple, a beacon of peace and tranquillity. The origins of Nipponzan Myohoji can be traced back to a more than 700-year-old prophecy made by the 13th-century Japanese Buddhist monk Nichiren (1222-82). He believed that the ultimate salvation of humanity lay in India, the home of Buddhism. The temple was founded by Nichidatsu Fujii in 1956. He was a Japanese Buddhist monk and supporter of Mahatma Gandhi's nonviolence and world peace ideas. It has a rich history, remarkable architecture, and different services that welcome people from all walks of life and religions without discrimination.
The Monk And The Mahatma
Interestingly, Nichidatsu Fujii was a close friend of Mahatma Gandhi, and throughout the years 1931 to 1938, he made a significant contribution to the non-violent movement in India. According to legend, Gandhi referred to Nichidatsu Fujii as "Guruji" because of his affection for the Japanese monk. In fact, Gandhi is reported to have integrated Guruji's ritual of drumming and reciting "Na Mu Myo Ho Ren Ge Kyo" into his prayers for the rest of his life because of how much he loved and respected the other man.
About The Temple
This 62-year-old temple serves not only as a religious refuge, but also as a vital link in establishing ties between neighbouring communities, as well as India and Japan. The temple's spotless white exteriors are embellished with elaborate wood carvings, traditional Japanese paintings, and ornate gold accents. Inside, the rich foliage creates a magnificent atmosphere for meditation and reflection. The temple has a kindergarten school run by Nipponzan Myohojion purely on donation, where underprivileged kids are taught free of cost.
The Peace Pagoda
The Nipponzan Myohoji trust in Mumbai also has plans to build a peace pagoda in the quiet village of Mauje Shirole on the outskirts of Mumbai. A stupa (peace pagoda), mandir (temple), vihara, shishu ghar (child care centre), deer park, lotus ponds, natural walkways, a meditation room, a meeting ground, and an information centre are among the development plans. The stupa will be constructed using traditional methods such as natural stone, mud bricks, and lime mortar.
Places To Visit Nearby
Global Vipassana Pagoda (Approx. 10 kilometers)
Located on Gorai Island, it's a massive stone monument and a centre for meditation and peace. The pagoda offers panoramic views of Mumbai and the Arabian Sea. You can reach it by taking a ferry from Gorai Creek, which is not too far from the temple.
Madh Fort (Approx. 6 kilometers)
Madh Fort, or Versova Fort, is a historic coastal fort on Madh Island. It's about a 15-minute drive from the temple. The fort offers a glimpse into Mumbai's colonial past and provides scenic sea views.
Gorai Beach (Approx. 10 kilometers)
Gorai Beach is a serene and less crowded beach, making it perfect for a leisurely visit. You can access it via a ferry ride from Borivali, which is around 10 kilometres away from the temple.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park (Approx. 12 kilometres)
Located about a 30-minute drive from the temple, this national park is a haven for nature lovers. It offers hiking trails, wildlife sightings, and a visit to the historic Kanheri Caves, which are ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves.
Kanheri Caves (Within Sanjay Gandhi National Park)
The Kanheri Caves are within the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, approximately 12 kilometres from the temple. These ancient Buddhist caves are known for their rock-cut architecture, sculptures, and inscriptions, providing insight into India's Buddhist heritage.
The Information
Address: Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple, Doctor Annie Besant Road, Opp Poddar Hospital, B Wing, Worli, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Visiting Hours: 7 am - 12 noon / 3 pm - 8 pm
Contact: +91-9869953781