As part of the ongoing Exposition of the holy relics of Lord Buddha and Global Peace Prayer Festival (GPPF) in Bhutan, three thematic Buddhist exhibitions have been organized by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) at the Grand Kuenrey of Tashichhodzong, Thimphu, to deepen the spiritual experience of devotees and visitors.

The exhibitions were graciously visited by His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, and Dr. Virendra Kumar, Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India. The exhibitions highlight the shared Buddhist heritage and cultural bonds between India and Bhutan.

The three exhibitions curated by IBC are:

 

1.         Guru Padmasambhava: Tracing the Life and Sacred Sites of the ‘Precious Guru’ in India

2.         Sacred Legacy of the Shakyas: Excavation and Significance of Buddha Relics
3.         Life and Teachings of the Buddha: A Journey Through the Path to Enlightenment

 

These exhibitions offer visitors an immersive journey through the life of Lord Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava, tracing the sacred origins of Buddhism in India and its flourishing in Bhutan. They underscore the profound historical and spiritual links between the two nations.

Buddhism has long been the cornerstone of Bhutanese identity, influencing its culture, governance, and unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH). From ancient sanctuaries such as Kyichu Lhakhang (7th century) to the iconic Paro Taktsang, the teachings of Guru Padmasambhava continue to shape Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural ethos.

Later in the evening, the Embassy of India in Bhutan and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) jointly organized the “Friends of IBC Meet” at the India House Auditorium in Thimphu. The event brought together members of the Bhutanese monastic community, cultural scholars, and representatives from the Indian and Bhutanese governments to celebrate and strengthen Buddhist collaboration and friendship between the two nations.

The “Friends of IBC Meet” served as a platform to reaffirm India’s commitment to promoting global Buddhist dialogue, peace, and mutual understanding, while enhancing people-to-people and spiritual ties with Bhutan.

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Sunil Kumar Tiwari

pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

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