New Delhi: A recent incident in Lumbini, Nepal, the revered birthplace of Lord Buddha, has sparked a significant controversy after a Brahmin was reportedly discovered masquerading as a Buddhist monk. According to witnesses, the man was performing Hindu rituals and asserting that Lord Buddha was an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, a prominent deity in Hinduism.Brahmin caught posing as monk in sacred siteThe Brahmin, dressed in monks attire, was reportedly carrying out a Hindu-style puja and spreading the belief that Buddha should be regarded as an avatar of Vishnu, diverging from traditional Buddhist beliefs. His actions quickly attracted attention from local devotees and Buddhists, who found the claims provocative and misaligned with Buddhist teachings. Upon being questioned, the man attempted to flee the scene, leading to further tension among onlookers.भगवान बुद्ध की जन्मस्थली लुम्बिनी में एक ब्राह्मण, बौद्ध भिक्षु बनकर बुद्ध को विष्णु का अवतार बताते हुए पूजा पाठ करते पकड़ा गया। सवाल किया तो यह पंडित भागने लगाबौद्ध विरासतें तो लूट ही ली है इन ब्राह्मणों ने, अब स्वयं भगवान बुद्ध का हिंदूकरण करने का प्रयास भी जोरों से चल रहा है pic.twitter.com/73B3iOxbM4— Priyanshu Kumar (@priyanshu__63) October 28, 2024Attempt to Hinduize lord BuddhaThis incident has ignited debates on whether such actions are attempts to “Hinduize” Lord Buddha. Several individuals and groups have expressed concerns over this portrayal, viewing it as a challenge to Buddhisms distinct identity and traditions. Efforts to depict Buddha as an avatar of Vishnu have been met with resistance from Buddhist communities, who argue that this interpretation dilutes Buddhas philosophical legacy.Backlash from the Buddhist communityLocal Buddhist followers and monks have condemned the incident, calling it disrespectful to the sanctity of Lumbini. “Buddhas teachings transcend religious boundaries,” said one local monk, who added that such actions could potentially fuel division. This event has sparked discussions regarding the preservation of Buddhisms identity and cultural autonomy.