The Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), is set to host the First Asian Buddhist Summit on 5th and 6th November 2024 in New Delhi. Themed ‘Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia’, the summit is expected to be graced by President Droupadi Murmu as the Chief Guest, as stated by a Ministry of Culture statement.

The summit aims to bring together Sangha leaders, scholars, experts, and practitioners from various Buddhist traditions across Asia to engage in meaningful dialogue, foster mutual understanding, and address the challenges currently faced by the Buddhist community. The Ministry of Culture stated, “Buddhism holds a unique position in the spiritual and cultural history of India and across Asia.”

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Asian Buddhist Summit To Address 5 Themes

As per the release, the event will delve into five thematic areas: 1. Buddhist Art, Architecture, and Heritage; 2. Buddha Cārikā and Dissemination of Buddha Dhamma; 3. The Role of Holy Buddhist Relics and Their Societal Relevance; 4. The Significance of Buddha Dhamma in Scientific Research and Well-Being; 5. Buddhist Literature and Philosophy in the 21st Century.

The teachings of the Buddha have long served as a spiritual and cultural bond throughout Asia, offering a shared perspective on life, divinity, and social values. The Ministry highlighted that “Buddha Dhamma has emerged as a valuable component of India’s culture, aiding the country in developing steadfast foreign policy and effective diplomatic ties.” The summit aligns with India’s Act East Policy, promoting an inclusive and spiritually driven Asian development, with Dhamma as a central guiding principle, it stated.

A special exhibition on the theme ‘India as the Dhamma Setu (Bridge) Connecting Asia’ will also be part of the summit, along with other creative displays aimed at showcasing India’s role as a unifying force in Buddhist heritage. 

“The Summit marks a unique opportunity in bringing together diverse voices of Buddha’s Dhamma across Asia. Through dialogue, addressing contemporary challenges, and promoting Buddhist heritage, the Summit aims to contribute to a more compassionate, sustainable, and peaceful world that gives us a complete assurance of the comprehensive welfare of humanity,” The Ministry of Culture stated.