Indian President urges the world to reclaim Buddhist values at the first Asian Buddhist Summit

In an era marked by global crises and an increasing need for peace and compassion, President of India, Shrimati Droupadi Murmu underscored the crucial role of Buddha Dhamma in guiding contemporary society toward a more harmonious existence.

Addressing delegates at the inaugural Asian Buddhist Summit in New Delhi, the President highlighted the relevance of Buddhist teachings as a beacon of hope for both Asia and the world.

The summit, organised by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in partnership with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), is being held in New Delhi from November 5 to 6, 2024. Its theme focuses on the "Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia.”

Shrimati Droupadi Murmu, the 15th President of India, comes from a Santhali tribal family in Odisha. She has a background in teaching and extensive political experience, having served as the Governor of Jharkhand. Known for her dedication to social welfare and advocacy for indigenous rights, President Murmu brings a deep commitment to inclusivity and community-focused governance.

"Let the flowers offered to the Buddha here spread the fragrance of our goodwill in all directions. Let the lamp we have lit here spread the light of wisdom," President Murmu began, capturing the spirit of the summit’s theme, "The Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia."

The two-day summit, organised by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), brings together monks, scholars, and practitioners from various Buddhist traditions to reflect on Buddhism's role in addressing today’s pressing challenges.

In a message of unity, President Murmu praised the diversity within Buddhism, emphasising that while practitioners might come from various lands and follow different traditions, their commitment to Dhamma unites them.

"I am delighted to be here today as I see before me a cross-section of the modern-day Sangha… But all of you are united in your striving for Dhamma, walking on the path shown by the Buddha," she remarked. This gathering, she suggested, underscores India’s central role as the birthplace of Buddhism and the cradle of its universal values.

Reflecting on the significance of the Buddha’s life and teachings, President Murmu invoked the Buddha’s famous words, “Bahujana sukhaya, bahujana hitaya cha” — for the welfare and happiness of the many. This philosophy, she noted, is as relevant today as it was over 2,500 years ago, advocating for compassion, non-violence, and the well-being of all humanity.

The Indian President said, "continue to offer solutions that transcend time, appealing to kings and artisans, monks and laypeople alike."

President Murmu acknowledged the various Buddhist traditions — Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana — each contributing unique perspectives to the Buddha's message. She highlighted the historical spread of Buddhism across Asia, from Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia to Tibet, China, Japan, and beyond.

“While their interpretations of the Tathagata’s message differ widely, there is no contradiction among them,” she assured, pointing to the shared commitment to Dhamma as a common thread binding these diverse practices.

India’s historical commitment to the preservation of Buddhist teachings was another focal point of her speech. President Murmu acknowledged the collaborative efforts over centuries to safeguard these teachings, from the First Council at Rajgir to the transcription of the Tipitaka in Sri Lanka and the translation of texts in Tibet and China. She celebrated these contributions as a testament to Buddhism’s resilience and adaptability, stating, “This is what makes Buddhist literature a truly shared heritage for us.”

President Murmu shared that the Indian government had recently granted Pali and Prakrit the status of "classical languages." Alongside Sanskrit, these languages now qualify for increased financial support, which she believes will play a crucial role in preserving and revitalizing the cultural heritage associated with early Buddhist texts.

The President’s call to action extended beyond the summit itself, as she invited international delegates to explore India’s rich Buddhist heritage through visits to the National Museum and the Buddhist Circuit, which includes Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, and other historic sites. "India has and will continue to do all it can to partner with you in this endeavour," she pledged, reiterating the nation's commitment to fostering Buddhist teachings worldwide.

The President closed her address with a heartfelt aspiration: "May Dhamma bring joy and happiness to all." Her words resonated throughout the assembly, reminding everyone that while Buddhist teachings may have originated in India, their message of compassion, peace, and non-violence is a gift to the world — a gift more vital today than ever.

The full text of the Speech by the Honourable President of India, Shrimati Droupadi Murmu: https://presidentofindia.nic.in/.../2024-11/sp05112024.pdf

Photo: with thanks to the Office of the President of India