Itanagar: The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, will be hosting an international conclave on ‘Buddha Dhamma and the Culture of Northeast India’ from April 21-22 in Arunachal Pradesh.
The conclave will be held at the Multipurpose Cultural Hall in Arunachal Pradesh’s Namsai.
The Northeast region is a significant centre for Buddhist traditions, monastic culture, and heritage. The region has preserved and propagated various Buddhist traditions, including Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana, the ministry said in a statement.
The conclave is expected to witness the presence of prominent dignitaries, including Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein.
The government of India is actively involved in several initiatives to promote Buddhist tourism, heritage conservation, and cultural exchange programmes to “strengthen the presence of Buddha Dhamma in the region”.
While the first day will include three panel discussions on historical relevance, art and culture of the region and cultural impact of Buddha Dhamma on the neighbouring countries, and vice versa, the second day will be dedicated to practicing Vipassana and praying for world peace at the famous Golden Pagoda.
Historically, the Buddha Dhamma reached the Northeast region during the reign of Emperor Ashoka and expanded to other neighbouring regions. It has played a crucial role in the Buddhist cultural corridor connecting India to Southeast Asia, the statement said.
Besides, the Northeast is home to several indigenous tribes that have integrated the Buddha Dhamma with their traditional customs. Diverse Buddhist traditions — Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana — flourish here, it said.
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The conclave aligns with the central government’s broader efforts to promote Buddhist heritage tourism, strengthen cultural diplomacy, and support heritage conservation initiatives across the region.
