Bhubaneswar: The International Buddhist Conclave: 1st Guru Padmasambhava Monlam, organized by the Light of Budhadharma Foundation International, took place in Odisha from January 12 to 16, 2025. The event celebrated the state’s rich Buddhist heritage while honoring the teachings and legacy of Guru Padmasambhava.
The conclave drew participants from around the world, including scholars, monks, cultural enthusiasts, and Buddhist practitioners, fostering global dialogue and promoting messages of peace and harmony.
Odisha’s Culture Minister, Suryabanshi Suraj, attended a session and emphasized the state’s significant role in Buddhist heritage. Highlighting sites like Ratnagiri, Udayagiri, and Lalitgiri, he called Odisha a “treasure trove” of history and culture, with immense potential for spiritual tourism. He underscored the importance of such events in preserving and sharing the timeless values of peace, compassion, and enlightenment.
The five-day event included meditation sessions, cultural performances, exhibitions, seminars, and discussions centered on Guru Padmasambhava’s teachings and the promotion of Odisha’s Buddhist heritage. Participants advocated for enhanced preservation and promotion of the state’s historical sites, envisioning Odisha as a global hub for Buddhist tourism.
