International Workshop on Perspectives of Buddhist Sanskrit Literature in India and Tibet.
We were honored to host the International Workshop on Perspectives of Buddhist Sanskrit Literature in India and Tibet, jointly organized by the School of Sanskrit and Indic Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), and Karmapa International Buddhist Institute (KIBI). This gathering brought together scholars of Buddhist Sanskrit literature and traditionally trained Tibetan Buddhist scholars to explore the profound heritage of Buddhist Sanskrit texts.
The inaugural session was graced by:
Chief Guest: Shri Chering Dorjey Lakrook, former cabinet minister of Jammu & Kashmir and President of the Ladakh Buddhist Association.
Guest of Honour: Shri Nanu Balraj, BJP Central Coordinator (TS), SARAL Incharge (BJP HQ, New Delhi), and Supreme Court Advocate.
Distinguished Guests: Prof. C. Upendra Rao (JNU, New Delhi), Ven. Skarma Ishey Jungnes (General Secretary, KIBS), Dr. Tsewang Gyatso Bhutia (Principal, KIBI), Ms. Rabjam la & Mr. Micha la (Secretaries of H.H. the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa), along with 25 esteemed professors from Delhi and Gautam Buddha Universities, students from Jawaharlal Nehru University, KIBI language students, and representatives from the Himalayan regions.
The event commenced with a lamp-lighting ceremony led by the Chief Guest, the Guest of Honour, and Prof. C. Upendra Rao, followed by auspicious prayers by the KIBI Sangha. The opening session included welcome speeches, expressions of gratitude, and an introduction to the workshop by Prof. Rao.
Lecture Highlights:
Prof. C. Upendra Rao (JNU, New Delhi) – Bodhicittānusamsā (Praising the Bodhichitta) in Sanskrit Buddhist Texts
Dr. Rolf Scheuermann (Heidelberg University, Germany) – Parting from the Four Attachments (Zhen pa bzhi bral): An Indian, Indic, or Tibetan Buddhist Doctrine?
Dr. Tsewang Gyatso Bhutia (Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Sikkim) – The Importance of Buddhist Sanskrit Literature in India: A Varied Perspective
Panel Discussion with esteemed scholars from Delhi University and Gautam Buddha University.
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all speakers, guests, and participants for making this workshop a meaningful and impactful event. May these teachings and discussions enrich our understanding and daily lives!
