Asadha Poornima, celebrating a common heritage

Staff Reporter

The Embassy of India, Thimphu yesterday hosted an ‘In Conversation’ Dialogue on the “Relevance of the Teachings of Lord Buddha in the Age of Technology with prominent Bhutanese scholars who represent the Bhutan Chapter of the International Buddhist Confederation.

The Chief Guest at the function was HRH Ashi Kesang Wangmo Wangchuck, a member of the esteemed Royal Family of Bhutan. The Foreign Minister of Bhutan, Dr. Tandi Dorji also attended the programme in the capacity of a Special Guest.

A press release from the embassy said the Dialogue witnessed discussions and exchange of views between various scholars and academicians of repute.

Ambassador of India Ruchira Kamboj delivered the Opening Address and highlighted the common spiritual heritage that joins India and Bhutan, as well as the salience of the teachings of Lord Buddha in present times.

The International Buddhist Confederation, under the guidance of the government of India, organized the Asadha Poornima – Dharma Chakra global celebrations on 24 July this year to commemorate the Dharma Chakra Parvattana, the first sermon by Lord Buddha to the five ascetics at the ‘Deer Park’, Sarnath.

The flagship event of these celebrations took place at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in the presence of the President of India and Union Minister of Culture, Government of India.

Prime Minister of Bhutan Lyonchhen Dr. Lotay Tshering had recorded a special video message from Bhutan on this occasion, which was broadcast in the course of the global celebrations of Asadha Poornima.

Indian embassy sources stated the celebration of Asadha Poornima is in keeping with the exceptionally close and friendly relations between India and Bhutan, reflective of the common thread of Buddhism that binds both countries.