The statue of Buddha is an image that has become iconic to Buddhism and Buddhist culture. To represent enlightenment and peace, many people place statues outside their homes or temples as a way to welcome visitors with kindness. They are used as a reminder to the observer that it is possible for humans to be enlightened and reach Nirvana.

Buddha statues across Asia are representative of the teachings and travels of Gautama Buddha. Each statue features common physical attributes, poses, and postures that define its purpose and meaning. The hand gestures of the Buddha, called mudras, indicate teaching, meditation, enlightenment, and wisdom.

The Great Buddha statue (Daibutsu) is one of the popular stops on the Buddhist pilgrimage and tourist routes in Bodh Gaya, Bihar (India). The statue is 18.5 m (61 ft) high representing the Buddha seated in a meditation pose, or dhyana mudra, on a lotus in the open air.