Bodhidharma was a Buddhist monk and the founder of Zen Buddhism. He is believed to have lived during the 5th or 6th century AD, although the exact dates of his birth and death are uncertain. He is also known by other names such as Bodhitara, Daruma, and Ta Mo.

Bodhidharma is said to have been born in Kanchipuram, a city in southern India, and was a member of the Brahmin caste. He was the third son of King Simhavarman and Princess Lakshmi of the Pallava dynasty. According to legend, he was chosen by his master Prajnatara to succeed him as the 28th patriarch of Buddhism.

Bodhidharma is most famous for bringing the teachings of Zen Buddhism to China. He is said to have traveled to China in the 5th or 6th century, during the Northern Wei dynasty, and settled in the Shaolin Monastery in Henan province. It is here that he is said to have developed the martial arts form known as Shaolin Kung Fu, which is still practiced today.

Bodhidharma's teachings were rooted in the Mahayana tradition of Buddhism, which emphasizes the importance of meditation and awakening to one's true nature. He is said to have emphasized the practice of sitting meditation (zazen) as a means to achieve enlightenment. He also emphasized the concept of "direct pointing" or direct transmission of enlightenment from master to student, rather than relying on scriptures or rituals.

Bodhidharma's teachings were met with resistance in China, as they challenged traditional Buddhist beliefs and practices. He is said to have faced opposition from both the Buddhist establishment and the Chinese government. However, his teachings gained popularity among the common people, and his influence spread throughout China and eventually to other parts of East Asia.

Bodhidharma is also credited with writing two important texts, the "Two Entrances and Four Practices" and the "Bloodstream Sermon." These texts outline the principles of Zen Buddhism and provide guidance for practitioners.

Today, Bodhidharma is revered as a legendary figure in Zen Buddhism and is often depicted in artwork and statues. He is considered the first patriarch of Zen and is credited with laying the foundation for the development of this branch of Buddhism. His teachings continue to be studied and practiced by Zen practitioners around the world.

In conclusion, Bodhidharma was a Buddhist monk and the founder of Zen Buddhism. He brought the teachings of Zen to China and is credited with developing the martial art of Shaolin Kung Fu. His teachings emphasized meditation and direct transmission of enlightenment, and continue to have a profound impact on the practice of Zen Buddhism today.