Leh, May 3, 2026: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu addressed an international conference on “Contribution of Himalayan Buddhism to the Spiritual and Cultural Heritage of India and Beyond” at the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre in Leh, emphasizing the enduring role of culture, spirituality, and identity in shaping strong and resilient societies.
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| Pema Khandu, Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, addresses the International Conference on the Contribution of Himalayan Buddhism at the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre. (Image: X/PemaKhanduBJP) |
The conference brought together eminent scholars, Buddhist spiritual leaders, researchers, policymakers, and participants from across India and abroad to discuss the historical, cultural, and spiritual contributions of Himalayan Buddhism and its influence beyond national boundaries.
Addressing the gathering, Khandu said that while a nation's strength is often measured in terms of territorial boundaries, infrastructure, economic progress, and military capabilities, its true foundation lies in the richness of its cultural and spiritual heritage.
He observed that India's civilizational strength has always been rooted in its diverse traditions, philosophies, and values that have united communities for centuries. According to the Chief Minister, preserving these cultural foundations is essential for building a confident and resilient nation in the modern era.
Highlighting the significance of Himalayan Buddhism, Khandu noted that the Buddhist tradition has served as a guiding force for generations of people living across the Himalayan belt. He said the philosophy of compassion, peace, wisdom, and harmony promoted by Buddhism has played a crucial role in shaping the social and cultural fabric of frontier regions, including Arunachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Sikkim, and other Himalayan areas.
“Himalayan Buddhism is not merely a spiritual tradition. It is a civilizational anchor that has preserved identity, fostered community bonds, and guided generations through changing times,” he said.
The Chief Minister further stressed that the security and resilience of a nation cannot be built solely through physical infrastructure or military preparedness. Instead, he said, enduring strength comes from strong cultural roots, shared values, and collective conviction among people.
Khandu also underlined the importance of preserving Buddhist heritage, monasteries, traditional knowledge systems, and cultural practices for future generations. He said these institutions continue to promote peace, ethical values, and social harmony in a rapidly changing world.
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The conference provided a platform for meaningful discussions on the role of Himalayan Buddhism in India's cultural legacy and its contribution to global spiritual thought. Participants explored ways to preserve and promote Buddhist heritage while strengthening cultural exchanges among communities across the Himalayan region.
The Chief Minister expressed hope that the teachings of the Buddha would continue to inspire humanity towards compassion, mindfulness, harmony, and peaceful coexistence. He added that the timeless values of Buddhism remain highly relevant in addressing contemporary global challenges and fostering understanding among diverse societies.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment among scholars and spiritual leaders to preserve the rich heritage of Himalayan Buddhism and promote its message of peace and universal brotherhood across the world.
