Arunachal Pradesh is all set to host an international conclave on Buddha Dhamma from April 21 to 22, bringing together scholars, monks, diplomats, and devotees from across the globe to celebrate and deliberate upon the teachings of the Buddha. The two-day event, to be held in Itanagar, marks a significant cultural and spiritual milestone for the northeastern state, which has long been a cradle of Buddhist traditions and practices.
Organized by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, the conclave aims to promote the universal message of peace, compassion, and wisdom embedded in Buddha Dhamma. The event is expected to attract participants from more than 15 countries, including Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Japan, Myanmar, Cambodia, Mongolia, and Vietnam.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who is also a practicing Buddhist, will inaugurate the conclave, while Union Minister for Culture G. Kishan Reddy is expected to attend as a special guest. Spiritual leaders from various Buddhist sects — including Theravāda, Mahāyāna, and Vajrayāna traditions — will share a common platform for interfaith dialogue, reflection, and spiritual exchange.
A Message of Peace in a Troubled World
The timing of the conclave is particularly meaningful. With global tensions and divisions on the rise, the teachings of the Buddha — focused on inner peace, harmony, and the cessation of suffering — offer a vital reminder of the need for mindfulness, tolerance, and collective well-being.
“The Buddha’s teachings are more relevant today than ever. The world needs peace, and India, as the land where Buddha walked and preached, has a moral responsibility to share his wisdom,” said Abhijit Haldar, Director General of the International Buddhist Confederation.
The conclave will include thematic sessions on Buddhism’s role in modern society, education and youth engagement, women in Buddhism, environmental consciousness rooted in Buddhist philosophy, and the historical significance of Arunachal Pradesh in the spread of Buddhism.
Celebrating Arunachal’s Buddhist Heritage
Arunachal Pradesh, particularly the western regions such as Tawang and West Kameng, is home to vibrant Buddhist communities and centuries-old monasteries. Tawang Monastery, the second-largest in the world after Lhasa’s Potala Palace, stands as a symbol of the deep spiritual and cultural connection between India and the Himalayan Buddhist world.
By hosting the conclave, Arunachal seeks to highlight its unique Buddhist identity while also positioning itself as a significant destination for religious tourism and academic research. The event is expected to boost cultural diplomacy and forge deeper ties between India and Buddhist-majority countries.
Chief Minister Khandu expressed pride in hosting the international gathering, saying, “This conclave is not only a celebration of Buddha Dhamma, but also a moment of cultural assertion for our state. Arunachal has long been a bridge between India and the Buddhist world.”
Promoting Cultural and Spiritual Tourism
The state government has also planned cultural exhibitions, art performances, and spiritual tours around the conclave. Delegates will have the opportunity to visit key Buddhist sites, interact with local monks and artisans, and experience the region’s distinct traditions and hospitality.
Tourism and cultural officials believe the conclave will boost awareness about Arunachal’s heritage and enhance its visibility on the global Buddhist map. With improved connectivity and infrastructure, the state is increasingly looking to position itself as a destination for pilgrims, scholars, and seekers.
A Step Toward Global Dialogue
The conclave aligns with India’s broader cultural diplomacy strategy, using Buddhism as a soft power bridge with East and Southeast Asian nations. The Ministry of Culture has been supporting similar events in various parts of India and abroad, reinforcing the idea of India as the spiritual home of Buddhism.
As the conclave unfolds in Itanagar, the gathering will stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Buddha’s teachings and their relevance in the modern era. More than a religious event, it is a platform for dialogue, mutual respect, and the timeless pursuit of peace in an increasingly fragmented world.