Bodhgaya, Dec 2: Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Tuesday attended the 20th International Tipitaka Chanting Ceremony at Bodhgaya, the sacred land of enlightenment.
Standing beneath the revered Bodhi Tree, where Lord Buddha attained supreme awakening, Mein joined Union Minister for Culture & Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, venerable Sanghas, monks, nuns and delegates from more than 22 countries in witnessing the unified chanting of the Tipitaka.
He said the collective recitation served as a powerful reminder of the Buddha’s universal message of compassion, peace and harmony, describing the experience as a profound spiritual blessing.
Mein stated that the chanting of the Tipitaka would not only spread the teachings of love and compassion, but would also foster peace, unity and harmony across the global community, reflecting the spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” — one earth, one family, one future — as envisaged by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Quoting the Prime Minister, Mein said, “Buddhism is India’s gift to the world,” adding that the event rekindled that torch and embodied India’s commitment to preserving and promoting its timeless Buddhist heritage.
He also conveyed his sincere gratitude to the Prime Minister for recognising Pali as a Classical Language and for the repatriation of sacred Buddha relics from Thailand, Mongolia and Bhutan, which he said has strengthened spiritual bonds and reinforced India’s cultural diplomacy rooted in its Buddhist legacy.
Highlighting Arunachal Pradesh as the Himalayan cusp of the Dhamma, Mein said that both Mahayana and Theravada traditions continue to flourish in the State. Citing the ancient monasteries of Tawang, the Golden Pagoda in Namsai and the 180-foot Buddha statue at Dhamma Hill, he noted that Arunachal Pradesh remains deeply committed to preserving and promoting the teachings of the Buddha.
Mein expressed his profound gratitude to the International Tipitaka Chanting Council of India (ITCC), the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), Life of Buddhadharma Foundation International (LBDFI), the Mahabodhi Society and all partner organisations for successfully organising the global spiritual congregation.
He also appreciated the Arunachal Pradesh delegation, especially the Tai Khamti community, for presenting the Maha Sangha Dana to the monastic delegates, honouring them with traditional Tai Khamti delicacies.
He said the enduring echoes of the Tipitaka would continue to guide humanity towards peace, while the compassion of the Buddha would inspire unity across borders.