International Conference Celebrates Legacy of Guru Padmasambhava in Nalanda

An international conference on August 28-29 at Nava Nalanda Mahavihara in Nalanda, Bihar, will delve into the life and enduring influence of Guru Padmasambhava. The event will feature experts from Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal, and India discussing Guru Rinpoche's teachings and contributions.

An insightful two-day international conference titled 'Exploring the Life and Living Legacy of Guru Padmasambhava' will be held at Nava Nalanda Mahavihara in Nalanda, Bihar, on August 28-29. The conference aims to shed light on the life, teachings, and lasting impact of Guru Padmasambhava, venerated as the second Buddha.

Revered in the Himalayan region, Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, is credited with the spread of Buddha Dhamma across Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, and the Himalayan Indian states. The event will serve as a platform for experts from Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal, and India to present papers, elaborate on various aspects of Guru Rinpoche's life, and discuss his significant contributions.

The conference will be inaugurated by the Governor of Bihar, Rajendra Arlekar, who will be the Chief Guest. Distinguished guests of honor will include Most Ven Khenpo Ugen Namgyel from Bhutan and Most Ven Khenpo Chimed from Nepal. Participants will explore various themes such as Guru Padmasambhava's biographical insights, Vajrayana Buddhism teachings, and his cultural and artistic contributions, as well as his extensive travels that have left behind numerous significant monuments and relics.

Guru Padmasambhava's legacy encompasses a wide array of contributions, including Yogic and Tantric practices, meditation, art, music, dance, and religious teachings. The event will celebrate his work through an exhibition featuring manuscripts, relics, paintings, and monuments, highlighting his unique ability to adapt Buddhist teachings to local cultures.

Organized by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in collaboration with Nava Nalanda Mahavihara, the conference promises profound insights into Guru Padmasambhava's life and legacy, whose teachings continue to resonate. Master calligrapher Jamyang Dorjee Chakrishar will showcase his calligraphic work named 'Seven-line Prayers.' Chakrishar, a founding member of IBC, holds the world record for creating the longest calligraphy scroll.

(With inputs from agencies.)