Bodhgaya Development Association

Bodhgaya is the place where the historical Buddha became enlightened some 2500 years ago. It is currently a place of pilgrimage for people interested in Buddhism. It is in the state of Bihar and one of the poorest and most violent regions of India. Villagers tend to have very little opportunity to change their circumstances. The Bodhgaya Development Association (BDA) provides support for long term initiatives to help the poorest of the poor in the Bodhgaya region.

The BDA was established in 1992 and is based in Brisbane (Australia). It was formerly known as the Bodhgaya Development Foundation (BDF) but incorporation requirements led to the name being changed. It is an incorporated tax-exempt non-profit organisation.

The BDA currently provides funds for two projects. The Prajna Vihar School, which provides education for children of the very poor who would otherwise receive no schooling. And Mahisi Gyanodaya Abhiyan, a literacy and economic self-suffiency project administered by a woman called Sister Jessie, which operates in outlying villages in the Bodhgaya area.

All work done for the BDA is voluntary with adminstrative costs being donated by people on the managment committee in Australia. Because of this, all money donated goes to the projects themselves.

In January each year there is a program put on by the school for Westerners, and travellers are welcome to attend. People can go to see the school at other times by arrangement. It is also possible to spend time with Sister Jessie but it is best to contact us and arrange this in advance.

The BDA manages to keep up it's yearly support for the two projects from the generosity of people in the West. If you would like to contribute or to find out more, please contact us.