By Lachman Balani
TORONTO: Looking for a quick break from the hustle bustle of city life and disappear in a serene and spiritual surrounding?
Well, look no further than six km north of Caledon East. There jjust past Brampton at 17969 Airport Road is a Buddha garden and temple complete with several multi-faceted Buddha statues, including the most famous reclining Buddha, when he gains his final enlightenment or mahāparinabbāna, propping his head on his right elbow.
In the garden of the temple – known as Wat Lao Veluwanaram of Ontario – there are several statues all lined up with different hand gestures, symbolizing peace, fearlessness, meditation, teaching and blessings.
The one that is the most striking and grabs the attention of all visitors depicts the touching-the-earth gesture (Bhūmiśparṣa mudrā) where the right arm rests on the right thigh with the fingers pointing downwards, but not always touching the earth. The left hand rests in the dhyāna mudrā (meditation) position in the Buddha’s lap.
There is also the classic meditation state (Dhyāna mudrā) where the hands are shown lying flat in the Buddha’s lap, palms upward. This mudrā is associated with a seated Buddha. It shows that the Buddha is disciplining his mind through mental concentration, a necessary step to achieving enlightenment.
Then, of course, one can’t but smile looking at the popular laughing Buddha statue!
A short walk away there is a small lake with an island boasting a maple tree that one can access using a walkway. This spot is like heaven on earth – a real oasis
One must also visit the temple and look closely at all the handiwork. There is also a dharmchakra (wheel of law) on the roof.
There are no words to describe the tranquility and nirvana-type serenity of this place. It has to be seen to be really appreciated.
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