Itanagar, April 19: A 2-day national level conference on Nalanda Buddhism concluded at Gorsam Chorten in the beautiful Zimithang valley of Tawang District in Arunachal Pradesh on April 17, 2023.

The conference was aimed at tracing the genesis of Nalanda Buddhism along the Himalayan regions of the nation and reinvigorating the sense of pride of historical accomplishments in spiritualism as well as historical linkage that binds these regions together through a spiritual bond that transcends regional boundaries.

The event commenced on April 16, with prayers offered at Holy Tree at Khinzemane, led by His Eminence Lochen Tulku Rinpoche alongwith 45 Buddhist leaders who thereafter paid homage at the Surwa Samba War Memorial to honour the brave martyrs of 1962 war.

The conference itself was conducted on April 17 and was attended by numerous religious leaders, civil dignitaries, and the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh Pema Khandu.

The ceremony was initiated by invoking blessings and lighting the traditional butter lamps followed by keynote addresses by His Eminence Lochen Tulku Rinpoche and His Eminence Thegtse Rinpoche.

The morning session concluded with an address by Chief Minister Pema Khandu and the afternoon session was conducted with a focus on journeys and teachings of Nalanda masters and Guru Padmasambhava.

The evening session emphasised the challenges to Nalanda Buddhism in the 21st century and was followed by a cultural function that celebrated the tradition and heritage of Himalayan states, including performances by a Himachali dance troupe and a singer from Ladakh.

The two day event showcased the rich religious and cultural heritage of the region and highlighted the historical linkages that permeate the spiritual aspirations of the regional population, based firmly upon the ancient teachings and guidance of Nalanda Buddhism.

Zimithang is one of the villages nominated to be developed under the Vibrant village program.

The delegates also appreciated close coordination between the Indian Army and the state civil administration for effort in promoting development in the area while simultaneously supporting the ancient religious traditions that embody the diversity of our great nation.