Mahabodhi temple blasts 'senseless violence': President

President Pranab Mukherjee Sunday termed the serial blasts at Mahabodhi temple in Bodh Gaya town of Bihar a "senseless act of violence", and called upon the people to maintain peace and calm, and cooperate with the authorities.

In a message, the president said: "The blasts are a senseless act of violence targeting innocent pilgrims and monks who had gathered to worship at this temple dedicated to the great apostle of peace - Gautama Buddha."

Expressing anguish and deep concern over the eight serial blasts that occurred between 5.30 a.m. and 6.00 a.m. within the temple precincts, leaving two monks injured, the president conveyed his prayers for the speedy recovery of those injured.

He also called upon people to maintain calm and restraint, as well as to cooperate with the authorities in bringing the perpetrators to justice.

Police said two Buddhist monks were injured early Sunday in the multiple blasts. The Mahabodhi temple is believed to have been built by Emperor Ashoka around 250 BC at the site where Buddha attained enlightenment.

It was re-discovered by Alexander Cunningham in the 19th century.

According to the home ministry, the blasts did not cause any casualty or damage to the temple, and the Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

The over two-millennia-old temple was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2002.