As twilight graced the skies and the sacred full moon of Ashadha illuminated the historic grounds of Sarnath, the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the Mahabodhi Society of India, solemnly celebrated Ashadha Purnima—the day that marks the Dhammachakra Pravartana Divas, when Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon at this very site.

Held at the revered Mulagandha Kuti Vihara, the commemoration witnessed the presence of esteemed monastics, scholars, and devotees from across the globe. The event also marked the beginning of Varsha Vassa—the traditional monastic rains retreat, symbolizing a season of introspection, discipline, and spiritual cultivation.

The programme commenced with a mindful parikrama (circumambulation) around the Dhamek Stupa, as monks, nuns, and lay devotees walked in silent reverence. Bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun, the stupa stood as a testament to the eternal resonance of the Buddha’s teachings.

The formal gathering began with a welcome address by Ven. Summitananda Thero, In-charge of Mulagandha Kuti Vihara, who reflected on the sanctity and silence of Sarnath that continues to cradle the Dharma through centuries.

Ven. Dieu Tri, a senior nun from Vietnam, shared touching remarks on the recent Relic Exposition of the Buddha in Vietnam, where 17.8 million devotees across nine cities paid homage. A short film by IBC showcased this spiritual journey and the emotional veneration of the sacred relics by Vietnamese followers.

Ven. Wangchuk Dorjee Negi, Vice Chancellor of the Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies, offered insightful reflections on the deep interplay of knowledge and practice in Dharma, and the symbolic confluence of events associated with Ashadha Purnima—from the Buddha’s conception to his first sermon and the establishment of the monastic Sangha.

Most Ven. Sumedha Thero, President of the Indo–Sri Lanka International Buddhist Association, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Government of India for choosing Sarnath—a place of deep historical and spiritual resonance—as the focal point for this celebration. He emphasized the enduring spiritual and cultural bonds between India and Sri Lanka, nurtured through centuries by the shared light of the Buddha’s path.

The event concluded with resonant closing remarks by Shartse Khensur Jangchup Choeden Rinpoche, Secretary General of the IBC, who reiterated the global mission of Buddhist unity and interfaith harmony, calling for empathetic and inclusive dialogue as the foundation of a peaceful world.

A vote of thanks was offered by Ven. Seelawanso Thero, Principal of the Pali and Buddhist Dhamadoot College of the Mahabodhi Society of India, encapsulating the collective gratitude and reverence that marked the spirit of the evening.

The Ashadha Purnima observance at Sarnath once again echoed the timeless teachings of the Buddha—inviting the world to walk the path of wisdom, compassion, and mindful co-existence.

On this auspicious occasion of #GuruPurnima, I am happy to share a significant step forward in preserving and celebrating India’s knowledge traditions.

From 11–13 September 2025, Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, will host the 1st ever Global Conference on India’s Manuscript Heritage… pic.twitter.com/5VRCXipRUF
— Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (@gssjodhpur) July 10, 2025

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Sunil Kumar Tiwari

pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

Sermon Press Release