National-level conference on Nalanda Buddhism concludes in Arunachal Pradesh

ITANAGAR: A national-level conference on Nalanda Buddhism was organized at Gorsam Chorten in the beautiful Zimithang valley of Tawang district in Arunachal Pradesh from April 16 to April 17.

The conference was aimed at tracing the genesis of Nalanda Buddhism along the Himalayan regions of the nation and reinvigorating the sense of pride of historical accomplishments in spiritualism as well as historical linkage that binds these regions together through a spiritual bond that transcends regional boundaries.

The event commenced on April 16 with a prayers offered at Holy Tree at Khinzemane, led by His Eminence Lochen Tulku Rinpoche along with 45 Buddhist leaders who thereafter paid homage at the Surwa Samba War Memorial to honour the brave martyrs of 1962 war. The conference itself was conducted on April 17 and was attended by numerous religious leaders, civil dignitaries, and the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu. The ceremony was initiated by invoking blessings and lighting the traditional butter lamps followed by keynote address by His Eminence Lochen Tulku Rinpoche and His Eminence Thegtse Rinpoche.

The morning session concluded with an address by Chief Minister Pema Khandu and the afternoon sessions was conducted with a focus on journeys and teachings of Nalanda masters and Guru Padmasambhava. The evening session emphasized the challenges to Nalanda Buddhism in the 21st century and was followed by a cultural function that celebrated the tradition and heritage of Himalayan states, including performances by a Himachali dance troupe and a singer from Ladakh.

The two-day event showcased the rich religious and cultural heritage of the region and highlighted the historical linkages that permeate the spiritual aspirations of the regional population, based firmly upon the ancient teachings and guidance of Nalanda Buddhism.