Buddhist Pilgrimage Investigated through the Eyes of Young ScholarsAn inspiring international gathering of young Buddhist scholars was successfully organized in Delhi by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in partnership with the Ministry of Culture. A diverse group of young academics and researchers discussed the significance of Buddhist pilgrimage for today’s youth at the conference, which had as its theme “Significance of Buddhist Pilgrimage.

“ This conference’s main goal was to provide a vibrant forum for burgeoning academics to exchange their deep insights, pursue scholarly endeavors, and advance knowledge in the field of Buddhism. It aimed to inspire the next generation’s curiosity about exploring the eight Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India and learning about other cultures.

The conference was attended by over 70 young academics from various countries and prestigious Buddhist institutions. Reputable academics and researchers from all over the world gathered to discuss and share insightful viewpoints on the multifaceted facets of Buddhist pilgrimage.

One academic focused on the physical and mental aspects of making pilgrimages to sacred places. Buddhism teaches that the mental aspect entails a devotional and religious act. One can purify their thoughts, speech, and actions by going to these sacred locations with feelings of reverence and veneration.

A renowned researcher from Delhi University named Jigmet Olden provided insight into the historical Buddhist pilgrimage sites of Guru Padmasambhava in Ladhak. According to him, pilgrimage is a crucial part of Buddhism because it enables practitioners to strengthen their spiritual lives, connect with their religion, and develop compassion and mindfulness. It is also thought to be a way to get rid of bad spiritual energy and purify negative karma on the way to eventual enlightenment. Buddhists have made yearly pilgrimages to the most revered holy places throughout history because they view them as places of power and the physical manifestation of the Buddha’s teachings.

Distinguished dignitaries attended the event, with SK Mishra, Chairman of the Indian Trust for Rural Heritage and Development (ITRHD), serving as the chief guest. In his keynote address, Prof. Kuldeep Chand Agnihotri, vice chairman of the Sahitya and Sanskriti Akademi in Haryana, discussed the significance of Buddhist pilgrimage and its significant influence on cultural heritage.

GKG Sarath Godakanda, Minister Counselor from the Sri Lankan High Commission in New Delhi, was the guest of honor. He spoke movingly about the importance of the conference and its relevance to the world’s Buddhists. Other notable dignitaries, such as Keo Sengdavong, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of Laos, and Minister Counselor (DCM) Tin Tin Htwe Win of the Embassy of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar both attended the event.

The conference came to a successful conclusion, making an impression on the attendees and reiterating the significance of Buddhist pilgrimage as a timeless and transformative spiritual practice for today’s youth. It is anticipated that the knowledge exchanged and connections made at the event will open the door to a more promising and enlightened future for the entire Buddhist community.