About Vasai-Virar Vipassana Samiti
Vasai-Virar Vipassana Samiti is located in Vasai–Nalasopara–Virar region. The region forms an important part of the ancient cultural landscape of the western coast of India. Long before modern cities developed here, this region was closely connected with the spread of the Buddha’s teaching of Dhamma. The famous Bahiya Daruciria who traditionally is considered to have attained Arahantship in the shortest time by just listening to few enlightened words from the Buddha is believed to have lived in/near this region. Another disciple of Buddha who later became Arahant named Puṇṇa Mantāniputta is also believed to have been active in this region. The excavated Sopara Stupa is located about 5 km away from the center. The discovery of Ashokan rock edicts (8th and 9th) in the Sopara area further confirms the region’s importance during the Emperor Ashoka's era and its connection to the broader spread of Buddha's teaching under him.
This center is equipped with two AC dhamma halls for Vipassana meditation and an AC dormitory for residing students. Some rooms for residing students have attached bathrooms/toilets. Parking facility is available for students coming by car. There is also enough space in the center for walking during breaks between the meditation sessions.
Currently, there are 3-day residential courses being held either for male or female old Sadhaks every month. The plan in the very near future is to start full fledged 10-day courses for both new and old students every month. Anapana courses for children aged between 10 and 16 years are conducted on the first Sunday of every month. 1-day courses from morning till evening are organized for old male and female students on the third Sunday of every month. There are one hour introductions to Vipassana video/audio recording sessions conducted on remaining Sundays.