The serene campus of Gautam Buddha University (GBU) in Greater Noida, India, is set to host the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) Conference from October 28 to 30, 2023. This prestigious event, titled “The Tenets of the Buddha Dhamma and Global Well-Being: Nature, Significance, and Applicability,” coincides with the celebration of International Abhidhamma Divas and marks the centenary year of Dr. Satya Narayan Goenka, the renowned advocate of mindfulness meditation.
A Unique Confluence of Tradition and Modernity
The International Abhidhamma Divas, often referred to as Abhidhamma Day, is traditionally observed in Theravada Buddhist countries. This auspicious day commemorates the descent of Lord Buddha from the celestial realm of Trāyastriṃśa, where he imparted the Abhidhamma to his mother Maya. The historical significance of this event is documented by the Ashokan Elephant Pillar, which stands as a testament to its importance. Shri Abhijit Halder, IBC’s Director General, stated, “The Buddha’s descent from the divine realm to Sankassiya, now known as Sankisa Basantapur, is a pivotal moment in Buddhist history, symbolizing the transmission of profound teachings.”
This year’s Abhidhamma Divas coincides with the conclusion of the Rainy Retreat (vassa) and the Pavāraņā festival, heightening its spiritual importance. Additionally, it pays tribute to the legacy of Dr. Satya Narayan Goenka, often referred to as the “Vipassanā Ācārya,” who played an instrumental role in introducing Vipassanā meditation to the world. Prof. Ravindra Panth, Director of IBC, emphasized, “Dr. Goenka’s centenary celebration honors his enduring legacy and underscores his contributions to the well-being of humanity.”
Uniting the Global Buddhist Community
Founded in 2012, the International Buddhist Confederation operates under the aegis of the Indian Ministry of Culture, with the primary goal of promoting Buddhism globally. Based in New Delhi, this organization serves as a common platform for Buddhists worldwide. Gautam Buddha University, founded in 2008, is a research institution focused on science and technology. Their partnership in hosting this conference exemplifies the harmony between tradition and modernity.
Exploring the Teachings of Buddha for Contemporary Issues
The conference, led by Prof. Ravindra Kumar Sinha, Vice-Chancellor of GBU, aims to explore the profound teachings of Buddhism in the context of peace, compassion, tolerance, non-violence, spirituality, and harmony. It aspires to bring together scholars, academics, and practitioners to discuss how Buddhist principles can address pressing global issues.
Dr. Arvind Kumar Singh, GBU’s Conference Director, stated, “The conference’s main themes and sub-themes cover a wide range of topics, from Abhidhamma philosophy to Vipassanā meditation, mental health, gender discrimination, global warming, and the impact of Buddhism on various aspects of life.” Scholars, researchers, and practitioners from the field of Buddhist Studies and related areas have been invited to contribute their abstracts, with the deadline for submissions set for October 15. Full papers are expected by October 25.
A Beacon of Wisdom in a Complex World
The International Buddhist Confederation Conference 2023 promises to be a gathering of minds dedicated to exploring the wisdom of Buddhism and its relevance in addressing contemporary challenges. Against the backdrop of the serene Gautam Buddha University campus, participants from around the world will engage in profound discussions and reflections, reinforcing the message of global well-being through the timeless teachings of the Buddha. This confluence of tradition and modernity serves as a beacon of wisdom in an increasingly complex world, offering hope and solutions for a better future.
