‘Buddhist Pilgrimage as seen by youths’ discussed in international conference held in Delhi

An international conference of young Buddhist scholars was organised by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture on Wednesday in Delhi.

The conference saw a congregation of young academicians and researchers who discussed ‘Significance of Buddhist Pilgrimage’ as seen by the youth today.

The primary objective of the conference was to create a vibrant platform for young researchers to share their insights, engage in scholarly pursuits, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field. It will inspire the next generation to further engage with the eight-Buddhist sites in India and carry out research on other sites here and overseas.

The conference witnessed an attendance of more than 70 young scholars of different nationalities representing various Buddhist institutions. Academicians and researchers from around the world explored the dimensions of Buddhist Pilgrimage and shared their valuable insights.

“Taking a pilgrimage to holy sites has two aspects. The first one is physical and the other is mental. According to the Buddha, the mental aspect is an act of devotion and faith. By visiting these holy places and looking upon them with feelings of reverence and showing veneration, one is able to purify one’s thought, speech, and action,” said a scholar.

Jigmet Olden, a research scholar from Delhi University, speaking on ‘the historical Buddhist pilgrimage sites of Guru Padmasambhava in Ladhak said, “Pilgrimage is an essential part of Buddhism because it provides an opportunity for Buddhists to deepen their spiritual practice, connect with their faith, and cultivate mindfulness and compassion. It is also seen as a way to purify negative karma and gain merit or positive spiritual energy towards their path to eventual enlightenment. Since time immemorial, Buddhists have traditionally performed an annual pilgrimage to the most significant Buddhist holy sites. These holy sites are revered as places of power and the physical manifestation of the Buddha’s teachings.”

“By visiting these places, they believe they can absorb this spiritual energy and connect more deeply with the teachings of the Buddha. Among the many Buddhist pilgrimage sites, those associated with Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) carry a unique significance,” he added.

The chief guest was SK Mishra, Chairman of the Indian Trust for Rural Heritage and Development (ITRHD). A keynote speech was delivered by Prof. Kuldeep Chand Agnihotri, Vice Chairman of Sahitya and Sanskriti Akademi, Haryana, who provided insights into the importance of Buddhist pilgrimage and its impact on cultural heritage.

GKG Sarath Godakanda, Minister Counsellor from the Sri Lankan High Commission, New Delhi, was the Guest of Honour and spoke on the significance of the conference and its relevance to the global Buddhist community. Other distinguished dignitaries present at the event included Tin Tin Htwe Win, Minister Counsellor (DCM) of the Embassy of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar and Keo Sengdavong, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of Laos.