The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture,Government of India, joyously celebrated the Bhoomi Pujan ceremony of the India International Centre for Buddhist Culture and Heritage (IICBCH) in Lumbini on August 6, 2023. The foundation stone for this esteemed project was laid by the Honourable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra
Modi, and the then Prime Minister of Nepal, Sher Bahadur Deuba, on May 16, 2022, at the site of the IICBCH.
The event saw the participation of 250 distinguished guests, including 150 revered Monks and 100 devoted laypersons. The esteemed gathering included prominent personalities like Ven
Maitri Mahathero, Ven Maitya (former VC Lumbini Development Trust), Ven Sovana Mahathero (President All Nepal Bikkhu Association), Ven Sukothmahatro (Thai Monastery), Ven Sujanitha Mahathero (Myanmar Monastery), and representatives from Chinese, Korean, and Japanese Monasteries, among others.
The program started with serene chanting by various sects followed by the sacred Bhoomi Pujan ceremony conducted by the respected SG, signifying the importance of the noble endeavor.
Talks were delivered by distinguished speakers including Ven Dr Dhammapiaya, Ven Maitya Bhante, Sh Sidhicharan Bhattarai (VC LDT), and Sh Karan Bansal (First Secy Indian Embassy in
Kathmandu Nepal). The vote of thanks was extended by Ven Khempo Ghase Thupten Jigdol, expressing heartfelt
appreciation to all contributors for making the event a resounding success.
The establishment of the IICBCH symbolizes the shared cultural heritage between India and Nepal while emphasizing ecological mindfulness and interconnectedness with the living world. It aims to promote the teachings of Lord Buddha and enrich the spiritual journey of pilgrims worldwide. The center’s vision received overwhelming support, establishing it as a crucial hub
for Dhamma related activities in the Lumbini Monastic Zone. Furthermore, it aligns with Nepal’s commitment to achieve Net Zero Greenhouse Emissions by 2045.
The India International Centre For Buddhist Culture and Heritage (IICBCH) will be built with sustainability at its core, drawing inspiration from Buddha Dhamma’s ecological mindfulness and
interconnectedness. The center aspires to contribute to the richness of knowledge and wisdom
prevalent in Lumbini’s ecosystem.
The event concluded with a lunch and a captivating documentary viewing at Hotel Hokke.Lumbini, providing participants with an opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and foster lasting friendships.
