“Buddhism teaches the world to counter sectarianism,” says Murmu.

President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the first Asian Buddhist Summit, organized by India’s Ministry of Culture and the International Buddhist Confederation, in New Delhi. In her address, President Murmu celebrated India’s heritage as the land of Dharma, lauding its spiritual leaders for guiding humanity toward inner peace and external harmony.

She announced that the Indian government has designated Pali and Prakrit as classical languages, securing financial aid to preserve and revitalize their literary treasures. President Murmu highlighted the significance of the Buddha’s teachings in addressing current global challenges, noting Buddhism’s emphasis on compassion (karuna) and non-violence as vital for today’s world.

The President emphasized the diverse Buddhist traditions, including Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana, and their unified message of peace. She praised the summit as a platform to strengthen collaboration rooted in Buddha’s teachings, underscoring the role of Dharma in promoting harmony within Asia and beyond.

Reflecting on the Buddha’s enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, she emphasized his mission for the welfare of all, symbolized by “Bahujana sukhaya bahujana hitaya cha,” meaning “for the happiness and welfare of the many.” President Murmu expressed hope that the summit would reinforce shared efforts to achieve a world free from physical and mental conflicts, ultimately uniting through compassion.