Excelsior Correspondent
LEH, Aug 12: Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra, the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, participated in the National Conference on “Nalanda Buddhism in the 21st Century: Challenges and Response.”
A statement said that the conference was jointly organized by the Indian Himalayan Council of Nalanda Buddhist Tradition (IHCNBT), Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA), and All Ladakh Gonpa Association.
Held at the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (CIBS) in Choglamsar, the event aimed to shed light on the modern-day relevance of Nalanda Buddhism.
Dr Mishra stressed the significance of comprehending the gravity of Nalanda Buddhism’s revival for its proper advancement.
He shared how ‘The Light of Asia’ by Edwin Arnold influenced his life, introducing him to concepts like the four noble truths and the eightfold path.
Reflecting on the tragic destruction of Nalanda University in the 12th century, he emphasized unity among diverse faiths and the revival of Nalanda’s legacy beyond just an aspiration.
Highlighting subjects taught at Nalanda like medicine and astrology, Dr Mishra called for practical revival rather than keeping it a mere dream. He cited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to rekindling ancient traditions. The LG appreciated monks’ dedication and urged their preparation for national-level exams without losing sight of their roots.
Dr Mishra underlined unity for Ladakh’s progress and urged the region to devise a clear 30-year vision. He endorsed Sangha, darshan, and community promotion and advocated unity, cooperation, and a collective mission for Ladakh’s betterment.
LAHDC Leh Chairman, Tashi Gyalson, echoed Nalanda’s relevance today and its global promotion. He spotlighted LAHDC Leh’s initiatives, advocating Bhoti preservation as part of cultural identity.
MP Jamyang Tsering Namgyal proposed CIBS as a Bhoti learning hub, suggesting feeder schools across Himalayan monasteries.
Chering Dorje Lakruk, Vice-President of LBA, highlighted Nalanda’s historical importance as a global center of learning.
The event featured General Secretary of IHCNBT, Advocate Maling Gombu, and Vice-President of All Ladakh Gonpa Association, Ven Dorje Stanzin, as well.
LAHDC Leh Chairman Tashi Gyalson, MP Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, Khenchen Rinpoche Tsering Bhutia from Sikkim, Tenzin Rinpoche from Arunachal Pradesh, officials from IHCNBT, CIBS, LBA, ALGA, and venerable monks attended, representing Himalayan States.
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