Kushinagar, March 31: The International Buddhist Conference 2026 commenced on March 31 at the Mahaparinirvana site in Kushinagar, sending a message of global peace. This three-day event, running until April 2, has gathered Buddhist monks, saints, scholars, policymakers, and youth from various countries on a single platform.
The conference is focusing on the relevance of Lord Buddha’s teachings of compassion, peace, and education in today’s global landscape. Uttar Pradesh’s Minister of Tourism and Culture, Jaiveer Singh, emphasized that in a world rife with conflict and uncertainty, the life lessons of Lord Buddha pave a positive path.
Singh noted that this international conference held in Kushinagar is a significant initiative aimed at strengthening global peace, coexistence, and mutual understanding. The event began with chanting at the Mahaparinirvana Temple, followed by the inauguration of the “Buddha Life Gallery.” Dinesh Pratap Singh, the state’s Minister of State (Independent Charge), formally launched the program by lighting the ceremonial lamp.
During the event, Kushinagar’s District Magistrate, Mahendra Singh Tanwar, welcomed the guests. Dr. Pankaj Vashistha, an associate professor at RIS, shared insights on the relevance of Buddhist philosophy today. A short film titled “Buddha in Kushinagar” was also screened. Local legislators and MPs highlighted the significance of the conference.
Following the formal inauguration, a student painting competition on the theme “Dhamma, Dialogue, and Development” was held at Shanti Udyan, attracting numerous participants. The students creatively expressed Buddhist teachings and values through their artwork. After the opening session, academic sessions commenced, with the first session focusing on “Buddhism from the Monks’ Perspective,” discussing both practical and spiritual aspects of Buddhist philosophy. This was followed by a session on “Buddhist-Jain Confluence,” which explored the similarities, historical ties, and contemporary relevance of both religions.
The atmosphere became particularly special during the third session when Mukesh Meshram, Additional Chief Secretary of the Animal Husbandry Department, delivered the keynote address. He presented a comprehensive overview of the state’s rich Buddhist sites, tourism attractions, traditional arts, and cultural heritage. On the first day of the conference, a panel discussion on “Buddhism: Dhamma, Dialogue, and Development” featured esteemed experts from South Korea, Laos, Japan, and India. They shared their thoughts on the utility of Buddhist values in a global context and their role in building an inclusive society.
The International Buddhist Conference will continue over the next two days with various discussions and cultural programs. On April 1, sessions will cover important topics such as “Developed Kushinagar 2047: The Way Forward,” “Potential of Kushinagar as a Food Processing Industry Hub,” and “Investment Opportunities and the Role of Invest UP and State Policies.” These sessions are expected to be chaired by the Additional Chief Secretary of Tourism, Culture, and Religious Affairs, Amrit Abhijat. The second day will also feature a student debate competition, an academic session on tourism education, and a panel discussion on “Kushinagar as a Sacred Site: Mapping the Mahaparinirvana Heritage Corridor.”
Additionally, a Bhojpuri Night featuring renowned singer Ritesh Pandey will be organized. On the third day, April 2, sessions will address topics such as “Buddhism: Inter-State Coordination,” “Five-Year Dhamma-Based Vision for Kushinagar: A Framework Until 2030,” and “The Relevance of Buddha in Times of War: The Need for Global Reflection.” A peace march will also take place, featuring the release of floating candles as a message of world peace, culminating in a musical performance by Padma Shri singer Kailash Kher.
Amrit Abhijat noted that Uttar Pradesh is rapidly establishing a strong identity on the international Buddhist tourism map. He highlighted that six major sites associated with Lord Buddha—Kushinagar, Sarnath, Shravasti, Sankisa, Kapilvastu, and Kaushambi—are located in the state. This is why Buddhist pilgrims worldwide prefer to start their “Bodhi journey” from Uttar Pradesh.
He further stated that the Buddhist circuit has emerged as a crucial center among the state’s 12 tourism circuits. The government’s efforts to expand tourism facilities, improve connectivity, and effectively implement projects have led to a continuous increase in tourist numbers, reflecting the government’s commitment. The first day of the International Buddhist Conference in Kushinagar concluded with various sessions, discussions, and a grand cultural evening featuring soulful performances by singers Amlesh Shukla and Amit Anjan.
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