First Asian Buddhist Summit 2024: A Gathering of Spiritual Leaders in New Delhi
The first Asian Buddhist Summit 2024 took place in New Delhi, bringing together Buddhist spiritual leaders from Asia and beyond. Organized by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), the summit focused on the theme “Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia.”
Inauguration by President Droupadi Murmu
President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the event with a ceremonial offering to Lord Buddha and a lamp lighting ceremony. She also met with Buddhist nuns from around the world. The event began with an invocation in Pali by monks, followed by Dhamma greetings from Shartse Khensur Rinpoche Jangchup Choeden, Secretary General of the IBC.
Key Addresses and Cultural Highlights
Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat presented a memento to President Murmu, while Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, delivered the opening remarks. He emphasized the global impact of Buddha’s teachings. A short film highlighted the summit’s significance, and Most Venerable Sitagu Sayadaw from Myanmar spoke on “Recognition of Pali as a Classical Indian Language.”
President Murmu’s Keynote Address
President Murmu launched the summit logo and delivered a keynote address, stressing the importance of spreading Buddhist teachings across Asia. She praised the IBC for organizing the event and expressed confidence in the summit’s role in fostering cooperation.
Cultural Performances and Discussions
The summit featured a cultural performance and discussions on the dissemination of Buddha Dhamma in Asia. Lama Aria Drolma, a Buddhist teacher, expressed her honor in participating, highlighting the healing power of gathering in peace and harmony.
International Participation
Abhijit Halder, Director General of the IBC, noted the participation of 160 delegates from various countries, including those along the ancient Silk Road. He explained the theme’s inspiration, emphasizing the alignment of Buddha’s philosophy with Asia’s traditional culture.
The summit showcased collaboration among Buddhist leaders, fostering deeper connections and shared learning across nations.
Doubts Revealed
Asian Buddhist Summit -: The Asian Buddhist Summit is a meeting where important Buddhist leaders from Asia come together to discuss and share ideas about Buddhism.
New Delhi -: New Delhi is the capital city of India, where many important events and meetings take place.
International Buddhist Confederation -: The International Buddhist Confederation is a group that works to bring together Buddhists from around the world to promote and share Buddhist teachings.
Droupadi Murmu -: Droupadi Murmu is the President of India, a very important leader in the country.
Buddha Dhamma -: Buddha Dhamma refers to the teachings of Buddha, which are about living a good and peaceful life.
Union Ministers -: Union Ministers are important people in the Indian government who help make decisions for the country.
Gajendra Singh Shekhawat -: Gajendra Singh Shekhawat is an Indian politician who is a Union Minister, involved in government activities.
Kiren Rijiju -: Kiren Rijiju is another Indian politician and Union Minister, who participates in government and public events.
Cultural performances -: Cultural performances are shows that include music, dance, and other arts to celebrate and share a culture’s traditions.
Buddha’s philosophy -: Buddha’s philosophy is about understanding life, finding peace, and being kind to others, which is important in many Asian cultures.