NEW DELHI : The three-day International Sangha Forum has commenced in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, with the participation of 2,500 Buddhist scholars from 35 countries. The inauguration of the event took place at the cultural centre of Bodh Gaya, initiated by the 14th Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Buddhism. Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu also attended the occasion.
FLASH : Dalai Lama at the inauguration of the first international Sangha Forum in Bodhgaya, Bihar. Participation from 33 countries at the forum.#internationlsanghaforum #dalailama pic.twitter.com/h7sie16ytg
— The New Indian (@TheNewIndian_in) December 20, 2023
According to sources, the forum will focus on the modernity of traditions in the three languages of Buddhism—Pali, Sanskrit, and Buddhist traditions. This international event in the historical site of Bodh Gaya is the first of its kind, addressing the development of Buddhism in the 21st century and discussing Buddhist education.
The discussions will cover various aspects related to Buddhism, including its development in the 21st century. Scholars will share their perspectives on the facts related to the development of Buddhism in the 21st century. The event will be broadcast on FM channels in different languages.
The artistic expressions of Pali traditions from South Asian countries and Tibetan cultural traditions will be showcased during the event, including dance performances. Buddhist scholars and speakers will discuss the modernity of Pali and Sanskrit traditions in Buddhism over the three days.
The aim of the three-day forum is to draw attention to some complex aspects and gather information about the role of Buddhism in the development of the 21st century. Over 2,500 Buddhist scholars from more than 35 countries, including India, Thailand, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Laos, Bhutan, Nepal, Vietnam, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, Russia, and Mongolia, are participating in the event.
After the three-day conference, a prayer meeting for world peace will be organized at the Mahabodhi Temple on December 23, in which the revered Buddhist spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, will participate and address the members of the forum.