'Buddha Boy' in new meditation spot

KATHMANDU, Nepal, March 12 (UPI) -- Followers of the Nepali teenager hailed as a reincarnation of Buddha say the teen is safe and meditating in a new place.

Ram Bahadur Bamjon, 16, disappeared four days ago from the shade of a peepal tree in the jungles of southeastern Nepal, The Independent reports.

He captured the interest of millions two years ago when his supporters reported he had been meditating for six months without moving, eating or drinking.

He also announced that he survived the bite of a venomous snake.

More than 100,000 pilgrims from across the Himalayas have trekked to the jungle to see the "Buddha Boy," with some claiming that a soft glow emanates from the teenager's forehead.

Doctors from Kathmandu wanted to examine him but his followers denied them access.

This is the second time Bamjon has disappeared.

He went missing last March for several days before he turned up under a peepal tree in the jungle.