LUMBINI, DECEMBER 10

An academic symposium on "India–Nepal Buddhist Heritage: A Common Legacy" was held at Lumbini Buddhist University, bringing together scholars, monastics, researchers and heritage experts to discuss the deep civilizational and spiritual links that bind the two countries.

Speakers highlighted how the shared Buddhist landscape-from sacred sites associated with the life of the Buddha to monastic traditions and artistic heritage-continues to strengthen bilateral cultural ties rooted in peace, compassion and the values of the Dharma.

Dr. Acharya stressed the importance of academic collaboration to safeguard this shared legacy, noting Lumbini's global significance as the Buddha's birthplace. Basist Nadan, First Secretary at the Embassy of India, said Buddhist heritage remains central to India–Nepal cultural diplomacy, reinforcing cooperation in heritage preservation and people-to-people exchanges.

Presentations in the first session focused on interconnected sacred geographies, the spiritual corridor of Mustang linked to Guru Padmasambhava, and the role of Buddhist principles in global peacebuilding. The second session examined historic pilgrimage routes, architectural and textual continuities between the two nations, and Nepal's early Buddhist artistic traditions.

A documentary on the upcoming India International Centre for Buddhist Culture and Heritage in Lumbini Monastic Zone was also screened.

The event drew around 200 participants, including scholars, faculty and students. Concluding the symposium, speakers underscored that India–Nepal Buddhist heritage is not only a shared civilizational inheritance but also a guiding force for regional harmony and enduring friendship.