Global Buddhists Honour Dr. B.R. Ambedkar at Tripitaka Chanting Ceremony in Bodhgaya.

BODHGAYA (GAYA)

The sacred grounds of Bodhgaya — birthplace of the Buddha’s enlightenment — turned into a powerful reminder of India’s social awakening today, as the International Tripitaka Chanting Ceremony (ITCC) dedicated a special session to Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, revered as the father of social justice and architect of the Indian Constitution.

Monks and scholars from more than a dozen countries joined thousands of devotees in paying tribute to Ambedkar’s historic role in restoring the teachings of Buddha to India’s socio-cultural fabric. The atmosphere resonated with chants of peace, equality, and fraternity — values that Ambedkar championed throughout his life.

Ambedkar’s Legacy Echoes Under the Bodhi Tree
In his address, Bhante Vinaya Rakkhita Mahathero, Secretary-General of ITCC, hailed Dr. Ambedkar as a “visionary liberator” who reaffirmed Buddha’s ideals in a modern democratic framework.

“His conversion to Buddhism marked a turning point, not only for India but for humanity’s march toward dignity,” he said.

Participants emphasized that Ambedkar’s adoption of Dhamma helped millions break free from social oppression, making him a pioneer of equality-driven spiritual reform.

International Representation Strengthens the Message
The ceremony was graced by significant global Buddhist leaders including:

Bhante Sanghasena, ITCC President Sister Wangmo Dixey and Richard Dixey, Buddhist scholars Acharya Rajesh Chandra, Dharma academic Bhikkhuni Sakya Dhammadinna, noted nun and teacher
Their collective presence signified that Ambedkar’s message has transcended borders, becoming a universal symbol of justice rooted in compassion.

A Grand Day of Tributes :-

🔹 Tribute Rally:
The day began with a vibrant procession through Bodhgaya, where devotees marched with chants of “Jai Bhim” and “Jai Bharat,” celebrating Ambedkar as a national and global reformer.

🔹 Protective Paritta Chanting:
At the base of the Bodhi Tree — the most sacred seat of Buddhist heritage — monks chanted Ambedkar Paritta for peace and welfare across the world.

🔹 5,000-Lamp Ceremony:
As night fell, thousands of lamps illuminated the temple complex, symbolizing Ambedkar’s lifelong fight against ignorance and injustice. Devotees described the moment as “a river of light flowing with hope.”

Message from New Delhi: Commitment to Ambedkarite Values Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, who was invited as Chief Guest but could not attend due to flight cancellation, sent a message reaffirming his dedication to the ideals of Dr. Ambedkar and Buddha.
His words inspired applause and reinforced the government’s stated commitment toward inclusive development.

Why This Tribute Matters
The homage at Bodhgaya marked more than a ceremonial gesture — it spotlighted a historical truth:

Buddhism’s revival in India carries Ambedkar’s unique imprint — linking spiritual awakeninAheadh social transformation.

This year’s ITCC thus emerged not only as a celebration of sacred scriptures but as a global recognition of the enduring bond between Dhamma and Democracy — the very foundation of Ambedkar’s vision for India.

Looking Ahead :-

As the week-long international chanting continues, organizers believe that Ambedkar’s message will keep inspiring a new generation towards justice, compassion, and unity. A sacred book. A historic leader. A timeless revolution — remembered where enlightenment was born.