First Asian Buddhist Summit highlights Buddha’s teachings for a harmonious future

Buddhist spiritual leaders from across Asia and beyond participated in the first Asian Buddhist Summit 2024, held for two days in New Delhi under the aegis of the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), themed ‘Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia.’

The event was inaugurated by Indian President Droupadi Murmu, who participated in a ceremonial offering of flowers to the Buddha and the lighting of a lamp, accompanied by a Mangalacharan led by Mahayana monks. She also met with Buddhist nuns from around the world.

At the event, the invocation in Pali by the monks set a spiritual tone, followed by Dhamma greetings from the Secretary General of the IBC, Shartse Khensur Rinpoche Jangchup Choeden.

Culture and Tourism Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat presented a memento to the President, and India’s Parliamentary Affairs Union Minister Kiren Rijiju delivered the opening remarks. He said, “Buddha’s message was spread from India to other countries. If his teachings are followed, the welfare of the world will be achieved. As a Buddhist, I feel fortunate to be a part of this event.”

Highlighting the significance of the Asian Buddhist Summit, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said, “The event provides a unique opportunity to bring together the diverse voices of Buddha Dhamma.” The inaugural session included a short film showcasing the significance of the Asian Buddhist Summit and Buddha Dhamma. A highlight of the session was a captivating address on the ‘Recognition of Pali as a Classical Indian Language,’ delivered by Most Ven. Sitagu Sayadaw, a renowned Buddhist scholar from Myanmar.

President Murmu launched the summit logo and delivered a keynote address that underscored the importance of disseminating Buddhist teachings across Asia. Praising the International Buddhist Confederation for organising this event, President Murmu said, “Buddha taught us how to live a moral life. In a world facing challenges on many fronts, the diverse schools of thought offer valuable guidance on what needs to be done. I am confident that this summit will play a significant role in strengthening our cooperation.”

Lama Aria Drolma, an ordained Buddhist teacher, said, “I am so honoured to be here. It is truly significant for all the traditions to come together today. There is a lot of healing when monks and monastics gather. When we come together with peace and harmony, it spreads everywhere.”

Emphasising the significance of the Asian Buddhist Summit, Director General of the International Buddhist Confederation, Abhijit Halder said, “We have about 160 delegates from different countries”. The Asian Buddhist Summit demonstrated remarkable collaboration among Buddhist leaders and scholars, paving the way for deeper connections and shared learning across nations. (ANI)

 Source:Daily news