Mahayana Buddhism is a relatively new sect in
Buddhism. It was formed with the view of accommodating more common people in to the religious fold. This sect greatly differs from the mainstream Theravada Buddhism in its principles.
The literal meaning of ‘mahayana’ is ‘greater vehicle’. The followers of this sect refer to Theravada Buddhism by the term ‘Hinayana’ meaning ‘lesser vehicle.’ The most striking feature of this sect is the belief that
Buddha is just an illusion. He was not born as a human being, as is generally believed. He is actually a formless celestial spirit presiding over numerous universes.
