Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated International Abhidhamma Divas on Thursday, emphasizing India’s efforts to highlight its rich culture and civilization by reviving the legacy of Lord Buddha.
The event, held at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi, also celebrated the recognition of Pali as a classical language.
Addressing the gathering, PM Modi said, “It is my good fortune that my association with Lord Buddha began at my birth and has continued uninterrupted. I was born in Vadnagar, Gujarat, which was once a significant center of Buddhism.”
“Drawing inspiration from Buddha’s teachings, I have gained countless experiences over the years. In the last decade, I’ve had the privilege to participate in numerous sacred events, from historical Buddhist sites in India to various countries around the world. This includes visiting Lord Buddha’s birthplace in Nepal and unveiling his statue in Mongolia,” said Prime Minister .
Regarding the recognition of Pali as a classical language, PM Modi said, “Language embodies the essence of civilization and culture. It is our collective responsibility to keep the Pali language alive and to preserve the words of Lord Buddha with their original values. I am pleased that our government has taken this responsibility with great humility, and I congratulate everyone on this significant decision.”
He further said that all locations associated with Lord Buddha in India and Nepal are being developed into a Buddhist circuit. This includes projects like the International Airport at Kushinagar and the India-International Centre for Buddhist Culture and Heritage in Lumbini, along with other initiatives in Bodh Gaya, Kapilvastu, and Sanchi.
PM Modi also mentioned his upcoming visit to Varanasi in three days for the inauguration of new projects in Sarnath. He highlighted that the government is committed to preserving the nation’s culture and heritage, noting that over 600 antiquities have been returned to India in the past decade, many of which are linked to Buddhism. He emphasized, “India is showcasing its culture and civilization through the revival of Lord Buddha’s legacy.”
“India is showcasing its culture and civilization anew through the revival of Lord Buddha’s legacy,” said PM Modi.
The Prime Minister was joined by Union Ministers Gajendra Shekhawat and Kiren Rijiju at the event.
Abhidhamma Divas commemorates Lord Buddha’s descent from the celestial realm after delivering his teachings on the Abhidhamma, a core component of Buddhist philosophy.
(ANI)