New Delhi; On the occasion of International Abhidhamma Divas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a ceremony at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi, emphasizing the significance of Pali’s recent recognition as a classical language. The event, which marks the descent of Lord Buddha from the celestial realm after teaching Abhidhamma, was made even more special this year by the government’s decision to elevate Pali, the language in which many of Lord Buddha’s teachings were originally delivered.
PM Modi began by expressing his gratitude for being part of the celebration and shared his personal connection with Buddhism. He recalled participating in similar events, including one in Kushinagar last year, and mentioned that his birthplace, Vadnagar in Gujarat, was historically a center of Buddhism. Over the last decade, Modi has participated in various Buddhist events, such as visiting Buddha’s birthplace in Nepal, unveiling a statue in Mongolia, and participating in celebrations in Sri Lanka.
Modi expressed happiness over the recognition of Pali as a classical language, calling it a tribute to Lord Buddha’s legacy. He underscored that understanding Pali is crucial to grasping the true essence of Abhidhamma and Buddha’s teachings. Although Pali is no longer in common use, the Prime Minister emphasized the role of language as a medium to preserve culture and tradition. He highlighted his government’s efforts to revive Pali, seeing it as a shared responsibility to keep alive a language that is essential to understanding Buddhist philosophy.
Modi touched upon India’s struggle with identity, pointing out that invasions and the colonial mindset post-independence hindered the preservation of its heritage. He regretted that Pali, despite its significance, did not receive recognition until now. However, with Pali and Marathi now recognized as classical languages, Modi said the country is shedding its inferiority complex and embracing its rich past.
He also discussed the broader significance of language in nation-building. The Prime Minister highlighted the role of India’s new National Education Policy in promoting regional languages and mother tongues, which he believes strengthens the cultural fabric of the country. He expressed pride in the progress India has made in respecting its diverse languages.
Modi also highlighted the government’s dedication to preserving Buddhist heritage through projects like the Buddha circuit, which connects significant Buddhist sites across India and Nepal. These include places like Bodh Gaya, Kushinagar, and Sarnath, where development efforts are ongoing. He shared that on October 20, 2024, he would be inaugurating new projects in Varanasi’s Sarnath, further showcasing the government’s commitment to preserving Buddhist sites.
The Prime Minister stressed that the teachings of Lord Buddha are not just relevant but vital for today’s world, which is facing growing instability. He reiterated his message to the United Nations: “India has not given the world war, but Buddha,” urging global leaders to adopt Buddha’s path of peace and compassion instead of conflict. Modi emphasized that Buddha’s philosophy of compassion, humanity, and wellness can offer solutions to contemporary challenges like climate change and global unrest.
Modi concluded by aligning Buddha’s teachings with India’s goals for the future. He noted that as the country progresses, it remains rooted in its rich cultural heritage, with Buddhism providing guidance in India’s journey of development. He expressed confidence that Indian youth, under the influence of Buddhist values, will lead the world in science and technology while maintaining pride in their culture and tradition.
The event was also attended by Union Minister of Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju, among others, further underlining the significance of the occasion.
