Namsai host International Buddha Dhamma Conclave focused on Northeast

A two-day International Buddha Dhamma Conclave, titled “Buddha Dharma and Culture of Northeast India,” was recently held in Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh. Buddhist monks and scholars from South Asia and Southeast Asia attended the conclave, discussing the spiritual and cultural ties that transcend borders through the practice of Buddhism.

Organiser of the Conclave 

The International Buddha Dhamara Conclave was held under the aegis of the Union Ministry of Culture. The Conclave was organised by the New Delhi-based International Buddhist Confederation in partnership with the Buddhist organisation Mahabodhi Maitri Mandala and with the support of the Arunachal Pradesh government.

The International Buddhist Confederation is a global umbrella organisation of Buddhist bodies. The International Buddhist Confederation works to preserve and promote Buddhist heritage around the world.

Inauguration and Participants of the Conclave 

The International Buddha Dhamara Conclave was inaugurated by the Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Chowna Mein. 

The Conclave was attended by  Buddhist monastic communities, cultural historians, and policy thinkers from India, Myanmar,Cambodia,Bhutan,Thailand, and Sri Lanka. All these countries of South Asia and Southeast Asia have rich Buddhist cultural heritage.

Buddhist legacy in Northeast India 

The Northeastern states, especially Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and parts of Assam, have a rich Buddhist heritage. 

These state has historical ties with Tibet, which is Buddhist. Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism have a great influence in these states.

Tawang Monastery in Arunachal Pradesh is the largest monastery in India. 

The 6th Dalai Lama was born in Tawang. The Dalai Lama is considered the spiritual and temporal king of Tibet.

Importance of the International Conclave 

• The organisation of the conclave in Namsai was part of the Government of India's cultural diplomacy to connect with Buddhist countries in South Asia and Southeast Asia.
• To showcase the rich Buddhist culture and heritage of the region, especially the Buddhist heritage of Arunachal Pradesh. 
• Several ancient monasteries, stupas, and unique forms of Buddhist art and scripture are found in Tawang, Namsai, and West Kameng of Arunachal Pradesh. 
• The government wants to promote the Northeast as a hub for International Buddhist scholarship and tourism. 

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