In March 2023, Tzu Chi volunteers from Malaysia and Singapore established a base in Bodh Gaya—the site of the Buddha’s enlightenment—to support underprivileged local communities through charitable, medical, and educational initiatives. They observed that most rural residents lived in straw or mud houses with bamboo or tree-branch roofs. During the rainy season, plastic sheets were added to minimize leaks. These huts had low eaves, about 100 centimeters (3.3 feet) high, forcing residents to stoop when entering or exiting. Inside, the homes were dim and simple, often lacking windows. A single wooden plank bed typically accommodated four or five family members. Clothes hung from ropes along the walls, while small goats occasionally wandered through the living spaces. Kitchens were equipped with earthen stoves, and families sat directly on the floor to eat their meals.

Nearly every household had a manual water pump for cleaning cookware, preparing food, and bathing—but no bathroom. The absence of sanitary facilities forced residents to relieve themselves in secluded areas, which compromised hygiene and increased the risk of disease.

Located along the Niranjana River, Silaunja became the first community where Tzu Chi built a housing village for impoverished local residents. After obtaining the necessary permits, the construction team rebuilt homes for 36 families who held valid land ownership certificates. The groundbreaking ceremony was held on February 25, 2024.

Contractor Azim Khan and his team arrived at the site on March 10 to begin preparations for the project. On March 23, residents signed legal agreements in the presence of a lawyer, consenting to the design, layout, and facilities of their new homes. Building materials arrived in April, and several villagers were hired to help construct their own houses.

Azim would invite Tzu Chi volunteers to join him on-site and introduce Tzu Chi’s missions when he distributed wages to his workers. He hoped to inspire them to give to the needy, which made him happier than earning profits himself. Beh Chun How (馬俊豪), Tzu Chi’s construction project engineer from Malaysia, visited the site daily to monitor the construction and ensure the quality of the project. Smiling, he noted that Azim likely made little profit from the Tzu Chi project and expressed deep gratitude for his wholehearted support.

Over eight months, the construction team endured scorching heat hitting 40°C (104°F) and downpours during the rainy season. They ultimately completed the 36 homes. Each house, measuring 40 square meters (430 square feet), includes a living room and two bedrooms. With ceilings three meters (9.8 feet) high, the homes provide much-needed space, eliminating the cramped conditions of the old dwellings. Windows throughout ensure light and ventilation, while raised foundations protect against flooding during the rainy season. Respecting local customs, which regard toilets as unclean, the bathrooms were designed with doors that open to the outside.

The interiors balance practicality and appeal. Floors are covered with 60-by-60-centimeter quartz tiles, making them easy to clean and maintain. Kitchen walls feature decorative tiles with an English teapot design, adding a charming touch. A water pump near the front door ensures convenient access to water, while padlocks on doors reflect local preferences and are easy to replace. Each home has an independent drainage system and pre-installed wiring conduits, enabling residents to easily connect to the utility pole outside to obtain electricity. The community also includes a septic system and wastewater treatment facilities. Space around each house was left for residents to beautify with greenery.

In March 2023, Tzu Chi volunteers from Malaysia and Singapore established a base in Bodh Gaya—the site of the Buddha’s enlightenment—to support underprivileged local communities through charitable, medical, and educational initiatives. They observed that most rural residents lived in straw or mud houses with bamboo or tree-branch roofs. During the rainy season, plastic sheets were added to minimize leaks. These huts had low eaves, about 100 centimeters (3.3 feet) high, forcing residents to stoop when entering or exiting. Inside, the homes were dim and simple, often lacking windows. A single wooden plank bed typically accommodated four or five family members. Clothes hung from ropes along the walls, while small goats occasionally wandered through the living spaces. Kitchens were equipped with earthen stoves, and families sat directly on the floor to eat their meals.

Nearly every household had a manual water pump for cleaning cookware, preparing food, and bathing—but no bathroom. The absence of sanitary facilities forced residents to relieve themselves in secluded areas, which compromised hygiene and increased the risk of disease.

Located along the Niranjana River, Silaunja became the first community where Tzu Chi built a housing village for impoverished local residents. After obtaining the necessary permits, the construction team rebuilt homes for 36 families who held valid land ownership certificates. The groundbreaking ceremony was held on February 25, 2024.

Contractor Azim Khan and his team arrived at the site on March 10 to begin preparations for the project. On March 23, residents signed legal agreements in the presence of a lawyer, consenting to the design, layout, and facilities of their new homes. Building materials arrived in April, and several villagers were hired to help construct their own houses.

Azim would invite Tzu Chi volunteers to join him on-site and introduce Tzu Chi’s missions when he distributed wages to his workers. He hoped to inspire them to give to the needy, which made him happier than earning profits himself. Beh Chun How (馬俊豪), Tzu Chi’s construction project engineer from Malaysia, visited the site daily to monitor the construction and ensure the quality of the project. Smiling, he noted that Azim likely made little profit from the Tzu Chi project and expressed deep gratitude for his wholehearted support.

Over eight months, the construction team endured scorching heat hitting 40°C (104°F) and downpours during the rainy season. They ultimately completed the 36 homes. Each house, measuring 40 square meters (430 square feet), includes a living room and two bedrooms. With ceilings three meters (9.8 feet) high, the homes provide much-needed space, eliminating the cramped conditions of the old dwellings. Windows throughout ensure light and ventilation, while raised foundations protect against flooding during the rainy season. Respecting local customs, which regard toilets as unclean, the bathrooms were designed with doors that open to the outside.

The interiors balance practicality and appeal. Floors are covered with 60-by-60-centimeter quartz tiles, making them easy to clean and maintain. Kitchen walls feature decorative tiles with an English teapot design, adding a charming touch. A water pump near the front door ensures convenient access to water, while padlocks on doors reflect local preferences and are easy to replace. Each home has an independent drainage system and pre-installed wiring conduits, enabling residents to easily connect to the utility pole outside to obtain electricity. The community also includes a septic system and wastewater treatment facilities. Space around each house was left for residents to beautify with greenery.