Vaishakha Buddha Purnima 2025 Celebrated with Grandeur at Ambedkar International Centre

Newdelhi:15/5/25:The ceremonial inauguration of Vaishakha Buddha Purnima 2025 was held today at the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi, in a spiritually resonant and culturally rich tribute to Lord Shākyamuni Buddha. The event was organised by the Ministry of Culture and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) to mark the Triple Blessed Day commemorating the Birth, Enlightenment, and Mahāparinirvāna of the Buddha.

Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, graced the occasion as Chief Guest, highlighting India’s pivotal role as the custodian of sacred Buddhist heritage. “India is not just the land of Buddha’s birth—it is the steward of his universal message of non-violence, mindfulness, and the Middle Path,” he said, echoing Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s global vision.

Highlighting the rich Buddhist heritage, the Minister said, “India continues to actively share and preserve its sacred heritage. In recent years, the Government of India has undertaken initiatives to strengthen global Buddhist ties. One of the most significant efforts has been the exposition of Holy Buddha Relics. These relics—treasures of faith and reverence—have been sent on special tours to countries like Mongolia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam, strengthening spiritual and cultural bonds with our Buddhist brethren abroad.”

Guest of Honour, Shri Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, emphasised the inclusive relevance of Buddha’s teachings. “One need not be Buddhist to follow the Buddha. His wisdom is a guiding light for all, especially in times of turmoil and uncertainty. Buddhism is a philosophy and not a religion,” he noted.

Buddhist scholars, including Geshe Dorji Damdul, Prof. Hira Paul Gang Negi, and Prof. Bimlendra Kumar, engaged in a profound panel discussion on ‘Application of Buddha Dhamma in Conflict Resolution’.

A stirring special address was delivered by Ven. Gyaltsen Samten, urging reflection on the moral courage and peace advocated by the Buddha, especially in troubled times. Ms. Subhadra Desai offered a devotional rendering of the Ratana Sutta, invoking the spirit of the teachings.

The celebrations featured two major exhibitions—Comparative Buddhist Art History of India and Life and Teachings of the Buddha—previously part of United Nations Vesak Day 2025 events in Vietnam. Screenings included documentaries on the dissemination of the Buddha Dhamma across Asia and the exposition of sacred relics from Sarnath.

The commemorative event concluded with a vibrant cultural performance by Guru Alpana Nayak and her troupe, encapsulating the timeless artistic and spiritual legacy of Lord Buddha.