The Laughing Buddha: Why Maitreya Still Smiles Across Centuries
If youâve ever walked into a Chinese temple or even a small shop tucked away in a busy street, chances are youâve met himâthe round-bellied, smiling figure who seems to radiate warmth without saying a word. In the West, heâs often called the âLaughing Buddha.â In China, heâs closely associated with Maitreya, the future Buddha. But the story behind him is far richer than a simple symbol of happiness.











