International Abhidhamma Day was observed this year on 17 October, bringing together scholars, monks, diplomats, and youths to explore the relevance of the Buddhist teachings in addressing global challenges. The event, attended by more than 2,000 participants from 14 countries, was organized in New Delhi by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in collaboration with India’s Ministry of Culture.
The celebration marks the day that the Buddha is said to have returned to Earth from heavenly realms to teach the Abhidhamma. Discussions at the event focused on the insights found in the Abhidhamma, a significant part of the Pali Canon, and their applicability to contemporary issues, such as climate change, economic challenges, and social conflicts.
Bhadant Rahul Bodhi Mahathero, president of the India-based Bhikkhu Sangha’s United Buddhist Mission, highlighted the importance of the Abhidhamma teachings, noting that they offered profound insights into human consciousness and ethics.
Associate research professor at the Dharma Drum Institute of Liberal Arts in Taiwan, Bhikkhuni Shakya Dhammadina, emphasized that these teachings also had implications for health and mental well-being, noting that many principles from the Abhidhamma aligned with modern approaches to mindfulness and emotional resilience.
Scholars at the event reflected on how Buddhist wisdom, particularly from the Abhidhamma, held potential solutions to the global crises of today, and how the teachings addressed the root of suffering and offered ethical frameworks to guide communities toward sustainable and peaceful living.
The conference also included discussions on the significance of the Pali language, through which the teachings of the Buddha have been preserved for centuries. Mahesh Deokar from Savitribai Phule University traced the spread of Pali from India to Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia. Deokar emphasized that Pali was not just a historical artifact but a living language undergoing a revival, driven by renewed global interest in Buddhist studies. Pranshu Samadarshi from Nalanda University referred to the growing enthusiasm for Pali as part of a “third phase of revival,” attributed to increasing international engagement with Buddhist philosophy. (ANI News)
Indian prime minister Narendra Modi addressed the gathering, speaking about his government’s recent initiatives to preserve and promote the Pali language:* “Language is the soul of civilization and culture. Therefore, it is the responsibility of all of us to keep the Pali language alive, to keep the words of Bhagwan Buddha alive with its original values.” (Organiser)
IBC director general Abhijit Haldar noted that India’s promotion of Pali “. . . is going to make a very big difference because India is the country of origin of this language and therefore we are the ones [who] should be giving it its due respect and regard. So with the declaration of classical language, I’m sure it is going to bring a lot of positivity in terms of spread of Pali language, and lot of exchanges between uh countries U like Thailand Vietnam Lao Cambodia Sri Lanka and India. . . The most important thing is that when you have direct access to a language you understand the teachings of the Buddha even better.” (YouTube)
As part of the event, Modi performed the traditional Chivar Dana ceremony, in which monks receive new robes, symbolizing generosity and renewal. He also met with senior monks from the Buddhist sangha to discuss the significance of Pali in fostering deeper scholarship in Buddhist studies.
Union minister of culture and tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat echoed these sentiments, expressing gratitude for the recognition of Pali as a classical language. He further emphasized the importance of ancient texts such as the Abhidhamma Pitaka in providing valuable insights, calling for comparative studies to explore how Buddhist teachings align with modern scientific and philosophical frameworks.
The event featured two exhibitions: one showcasing the historical spread of Pali across Southeast Asia, and the other focusing on the life and teachings of the Buddha, providing attendees with a deeper understanding of the cultural and spiritual significance of Pali and its ongoing relevance in contemporary discussions about ethics and spirituality.
Throughout the event, participants engaged in discussions on the significance of the Pali language and the enduring relevance of Buddhist wisdom. Many young attendees expressed enthusiasm for learning Pali and exploring its teachings, seeing it as a way to connect with ancient wisdom while addressing the challenges of today’s world.
* India Recognizes Pali as a Classical Language, Highlighting Its Cultural and Religious Significance (BDG)
See more
Scholars highlight Buddhist wisdom in addressing modern challenges at International Abhidhamma Divas (ANI News)
International Abhidhamma Divas: PM Modi lauds Bharat’s role in reviving Buddha’s legacy and recognition to Pali (Organiser)
Prof. Chandrakirti advocates for Pali’s inclusion in Eighth Schedule of Constitution (Weekly Voice)
International Abhidhamma Divas honours teachings of Lord Buddha, celebrates Pali revival (YouTube)
Pali Is Crucial To Understanding Buddha’s Teachings, We Have To Keep It Alive: PM Modi At Abhidhamma Divas Event (ABP Live)
Related news reports from BDG
International Buddhist Confederation to Host Abhidhamma Celebration and Conference with Gautam Buddha University
International Buddhist Confederation Hosts Abhidhamma Day Conference in Noida, India
Indian Buddhist Scholar Publishes Book on Relations in Abhidhamma Philosophy
Young Buddhist Scholars Meet in New Delhi for Conference on Buddhist Pilgrimage
International Buddhist Confederation Leads Ashadha Purnima Celebration in New Delhi
Related features from BDG
Controversies on the Origin of the Theravada Abhidhamma-pitaka
Discernment of the Treasure of Abhidhamma
The Dhamma Theory: Philosophical Cornerstone of the Abhidhamma
