Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh’s Deputy Chief Minister, Chowna Mein, has placed Namsai firmly on the global map, highlighting its profound cultural significance during the International Conclave on Buddha Dhamma and the Culture of North-East India. Mein articulated that Namsai, situated at the easternmost point of the state, serves as a vibrant testament to the enduring Buddhist traditions that continue to shape the community’s daily existence.
During the conclave, Mein passionately advocated for the development of a dedicated Buddhist tourism circuit within the state, underscoring the importance of celebrating and promoting Buddhist festivals, such as the recently concluded Songpa Water Festival. He remarked, “Our culture is deeply rooted in socio-religious festivals, and the Songpa Water Festival, celebrated by the Khamti community in Namsai, Changlang, and Itanagar, was a grand success with visitors from overseas participating.”
Mein further emphasized that Arunachal Pradesh is home to several significant ancient Buddhist pilgrimage sites, reinforcing the region’s deep historical connection to Buddhism. He also recounted the historical resistance of his tribe, the Tai Khamtis, against British colonial forces, recalling their victory in the Anglo-Khamti War of 1839. “As a result of this victory, the British burned our villages and scattered our people across the region,” Mein explained.
The Deputy Chief Minister also drew attention to the preservation of the Pali language through the Khamti script, one of only two ancient scripts indigenous to the state. “Even the Ramayan and Mahabharat are written in the Khamti script,” he stated, highlighting the tribe’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding their cultural legacy.
Mein commended the Mahabodhi Society for their contributions to the region and expressed his hopes for the establishment of a skill development center to empower local youth. The conclave, organized by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and the Arunachal Pradesh government, and supported by the Mahabodhi Society of Namsai, drew over 300 participants, including prominent Buddhist leaders, scholars, and political representatives.
The event witnessed significant international participation, with delegates from Bhutan, Myanmar, and Cambodia engaging in fruitful discussions. Bhutan’s Consul General in Guwahati, Jigme Thinly Namgyal, addressed the attendees during the inaugural session.
Zingnu Namchoom, MLA of Namsai, emphasized the seamless integration of Buddhist teachings into the daily lives of the community. “Our dharma is our culture, which is our way of life,” he stated, noting that even wedding ceremonies incorporate teachings from the Buddha to guide married life.
The Dhamma address was delivered by Most Ven. Aggadhamma Bhaddanta, Chief Abbot of the Pariyatti Sasana Buddha Vihara in Namsai. IBC Secretary General, Shartse Khensur Jangchup Choeden Rinpoche, extended a warm welcome to the attendees, while IBC Director General, Abhijit Halder, provided a comprehensive overview of the event.
The conclave featured discussions on the historical significance of Buddha Dhamma in North-East India, as well as the art, culture, and heritage of Buddhist communities in the region. A dedicated session explored the cultural impact on Buddhists in the region. As a gesture of solidarity, special prayers and chanting were held at the Golden Pagoda for the victims of the recent earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand, followed by a session on Vipassana meditation.
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