A panel discussion on “Buddhist Philosophy” was held at the Rai Pithora Cultural Complex in New Delhi in connection with the inauguration of the Grand International Exhibition of the Sacred Piprahwa Relics by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The session was chaired by Prof. Siddharth Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Nava Nalanda Mahavihara (Deemed University), Nalanda, and brought together eminent scholars from leading academic institutions across the country to reflect on the philosophical, ethical and civilisational significance of Buddhism.
In his presidential address, Prof. Siddharth Singh said that the teachings of Buddha spread across the world not through force or coercion but through dialogue, ethical conduct and personal example. He noted that Buddhism, like other Dharma-based traditions, focuses on the purification of the human mind and the alleviation of suffering rather than proselytisation. He added that the repatriation of the Piprahwa relics should be seen as an act of shared stewardship rather than ownership, as the relics continue to sustain living Buddhist traditions by connecting practitioners with the historical Buddha.
Prof. Nalin Kumar Shastri said the return of the Piprahwa relics highlights the renewed relevance of Buddhist philosophy as a guide for peace and integrated national development. He underlined the role of Buddhist teachings such as Anattā, the Brahmavihāras and Pratītyasamutpāda in promoting ethical governance, environmental sustainability and social harmony, reaffirming India’s position as the Motherland of Dhamma.
Prof. Anand Singh observed that relics of the Buddha and his disciples function as symbolic embodiments of the Dhamma, integrating both the living presence of the Buddha and his teachings. He noted that relic veneration played a significant role in the expansion of Buddhist sacred geography through stūpas and caityas, while accommodating local cultural elements without compromising core philosophical values.
Prof. Bala Ganpathi said Buddhism’s global acceptance stems from its philosophical depth and ethical universality. Describing the Piprahwa relics as living reminders of the Buddha’s message, he said Buddhist philosophy offers a humane and practical framework for peace, coexistence and moral clarity in a fragmented world.
Prof. Rajnish Mishra highlighted the philosophical and textual continuities between Buddhist and classical Indian thought, noting the shared intellectual traditions of Śramaṇic and Brāhmaṇical schools. He said centres such as Varanasi historically served as hubs of dialogue, debate and philosophical development.
Prof. Ujjwal Kumar spoke on the significance of Sarnath as the site of the Buddha’s first sermon and explained key doctrinal distinctions between stūpa and cetiya, noting that both hold a central place in Buddhist ethical and devotional life.
The panel collectively acknowledged the efforts of the Prime Minister and the Union Minister of Culture in facilitating the repatriation of the Piprahwa relics, describing the initiative as a gesture of cultural stewardship, global goodwill and India’s enduring commitment to peace and shared human values.
