President Droupadi Murmu opened the summit with a ceremonial flower offering to Lord Buddha and a lamp-lighting ceremony, accompanied by a Mangalacharan led by Mahayana monks. She also held discussions with Buddhist nuns from various countries, further emphasizing the event’s global reach.
The summit began with an invocation in Pali by monks, followed by Dhamma greetings from IBC Secretary General Shartse Khensur Rinpoche Jangchup Choeden. Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, presented a memento to President Murmu, while Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju offered opening remarks. He shared, “Buddha’s message originated in India and spread globally. Following his teachings will lead to the welfare of the world. As a Buddhist, I feel honored to participate in this event.”
Highlighting the summit’s significance, Shekhawat noted, “This event brings together the diverse voices of Buddha Dhamma.” The opening session featured a short film on the significance of the summit and a keynote by Most Venerable Sitagu Sayadaw, a renowned Myanmar scholar, on recognizing Pali as a classical Indian language.
President Murmu launched the summit logo and delivered a keynote address, praising the IBC’s efforts. “Buddha taught us how to live a moral life. In a world facing numerous challenges, Buddhist teachings provide valuable guidance. I am confident this summit will foster greater cooperation,” she said.
The event included a vibrant cultural performance and sessions led by prominent scholars who discussed the contemporary relevance of Buddha Dhamma. Lama Aria Drolma, an ordained teacher, shared, “It is truly significant for all traditions to come together. There’s healing when monastics gather in peace and harmony, spreading it everywhere.”
IBC Director General Abhijit Halder highlighted the attendance of 160 delegates, including many from Central Asia along the historic Silk Road, underscoring the enduring impact of Buddha’s teachings across Asia. Reflecting on the summit’s theme, Halder said, “Buddha Dhamma resonates deeply within Asia’s traditional cultural values.”
The Asian Buddhist Summit marked a new milestone in international Buddhist collaboration, promoting unity and shared wisdom among leaders and scholars across the region.
