The First Asian Buddhist Summit (ABS), organized by India’s Ministry of Culture and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in New Delhi, marks a pivotal moment for the global Buddhist community. This summit was a platform for dialogue on contemporary challenges, the role of Buddhist principles in society, and the significance of Buddhist heritage across Asia. Themed “Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia,” it highlighted the collective spiritual development of the region while emphasizing the enduring relevance of Buddhist teachings in the modern world.
Key Themes and Highlights of the Summit
The summit, centered around fostering dialogue and promoting mutual understanding within the Buddhist community, covered a range of important topics related to the teachings and cultural impact of Buddhism in Asia.
- Buddhist Art, Architecture, and Heritage: One of the key discussions revolved around the rich cultural legacy of Buddhist landmarks like the Sanchi Stupa and Ajanta Caves. These sites, deeply intertwined with Buddhist history, are not only symbols of architectural brilliance but also serve as important cultural and religious landmarks that continue to inspire and attract millions of pilgrims and tourists.
- Buddha Cārikā and the Dissemination of Dhamma: Another important theme was Buddha’s travels (Buddha Cārikā) across India, which played a significant role in spreading his teachings. This historical journey symbolizes the far-reaching impact of the Buddha’s teachings, which continue to be relevant in today’s world. His travels fostered the spread of Dhamma, laying the foundation for Buddhism’s influence across Asia.
- Role of Buddhist Relics in Society: Buddhist relics have always held immense significance, inspiring devotion and mindfulness. They serve as a powerful force in promoting peace and compassion, and their influence extends beyond spiritual benefits by also supporting local economies through pilgrimage tourism.
- Buddhist Literature and Philosophy in the 21st Century: The summit also highlighted how Buddhist literature and philosophy continue to hold relevance in modern philosophical discourse. Buddha’s teachings on ethics, compassion, and mindfulness remain pertinent, especially in addressing the moral and philosophical challenges of contemporary society.
- Buddha Dhamma in Scientific Research and Well-being: The integration of Buddhist principles with scientific research was a key focus of the summit, particularly in how these teachings can enhance mental and physical health. This convergence of ancient wisdom and modern science underscores the timelessness of Buddha’s teachings.
India’s Role in Promoting Buddhist Heritage
India’s central role in the promotion and preservation of Buddhist heritage was a major highlight of the summit. The event significantly supported India’s Act East Policy and Neighborhood First Policy, both of which aim to foster deeper cultural, spiritual, and diplomatic ties with other Asian nations. Through initiatives like the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, India has undertaken significant efforts to promote Buddhist heritage sites and strengthen the tourism infrastructure around them.
- Swadesh Darshan Scheme: Launched in 2014-15, the scheme focuses on the integrated development of theme-based tourist circuits, including the Buddhist Circuit. This circuit aims to develop world-class tourism infrastructure around key Buddhist heritage sites such as Bodhgaya, Sarnath, and Kushinagar, among others. It is part of a broader initiative to promote cultural and religious tourism while enhancing the livelihoods of local communities through sustainable tourism development.
- Swadesh Darshan 2.0: In 2023, the scheme underwent a generational shift with a new emphasis on developing sustainable and responsible tourism destinations. The revamped version focuses on creating job opportunities, enhancing skills in tourism and hospitality, and fostering private sector investment in the sector.
Global Significance of the Summit
The summit reinforced India’s role as a major hub of Buddhist diplomacy. The Buddha Bhoomi Vandan Yatra and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) have played an essential role in fostering ties between India and Buddhist-majority countries like Japan, South Korea, and Sri Lanka. These diplomatic efforts aim to showcase India’s rich Buddhist heritage while promoting cultural and religious diplomacy.
Additionally, the Global Buddhist Summit 2023, held earlier in the year, further strengthened these cultural ties. The summit brought together Buddhist monks, scholars, and leaders from around the world to discuss pressing global issues and explore solutions through Buddha Dhamma. The discussions centered around topics like peace, environmental crisis, health, and sustainability, offering a Buddhist perspective on global challenges.
- Buddha Dhamma and Peace: The teachings of the Buddha, particularly the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path, were discussed in the context of promoting peace and resolving contemporary conflicts. The summit emphasized how these teachings can offer practical solutions to issues like war, terrorism, and social unrest.
- Buddha Dhamma and Environmental Sustainability: The summit also explored how Buddhist teachings, especially the principles of compassion, mindfulness, and non-harming, could contribute to addressing the environmental crisis. The discussions underscored the need for sustainable living, drawing on Buddha’s philosophy of simplicity and moderation.
The Role of Buddhism in India’s Soft Power Strategy
India has long utilized Buddhism as a tool in its soft power strategy, particularly through cultural diplomacy and education initiatives. The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has organized various events in Buddhist-majority countries, showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage and promoting the country as a major center for Buddhist learning and pilgrimage.
- Cultural Diplomacy: India has used Buddhism as a means to strengthen its cultural ties with countries like Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, and Bhutan. Through cultural events, exhibitions, and bilateral exchanges, India has sought to promote its Buddhist heritage and foster greater cultural understanding.
- Educational Initiatives: India has established several Buddhist educational institutions, such as Nalanda University and the Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies, to promote Buddhist studies and research. In 2022, the foundation stone for the Dhamma Dipa International Buddhist University (DDIBU) was laid in Tripura. This university, the first of its kind in India, will offer courses in both Buddhist education and modern disciplines, furthering India’s position as a hub for Buddhist learning.
India’s soft power extends beyond cultural diplomacy and education. The country has also signed agreements with Sri Lanka and other Buddhist nations to promote economic cooperation and has assisted in the restoration of Buddhist heritage sites in countries like Myanmar and Nepal. These efforts not only help preserve Buddhist culture but also strengthen diplomatic ties with these nations.
Significance of Buddhism in Contemporary Global Challenges
Buddhism, with its emphasis on compassion, mindfulness, and non-violence, offers valuable insights into addressing some of the most pressing global challenges today. The teachings of the Buddha can serve as a guide for ethical governance, social justice, and environmental sustainability.
- Compassion in Governance: Buddha’s teachings on compassion and ethical conduct can provide a framework for governance that is rooted in justice and fairness. Leaders who adhere to these principles are more likely to prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable in society, promoting policies that foster inclusivity and equity.
- Environmental Sustainability: The Buddhist concept of interdependence highlights the interconnectedness of all living beings and the environment. This perspective encourages sustainable practices and mindful consumption, both of which are crucial in tackling the global environmental crisis.
The First Asian Buddhist Summit represents a significant step forward in fostering dialogue within the Buddhist community and promoting the relevance of Buddha’s teachings in addressing contemporary challenges. By bringing together leaders, scholars, and practitioners from across Asia, the summit emphasized the need for collective spiritual growth, cultural preservation, and the application of Buddhist principles in modern governance and society. India’s role in hosting the summit and promoting Buddhist heritage underscores the country’s commitment to deepening its cultural and diplomatic ties with other nations through the shared values of peace, compassion, and harmony.