Guardians of Buddha’s Roots: ITRHD Launches Historic Dialogue on Rural Heritage Preservation

ITRHD’s conference brought together a diverse mix of scholars, conservationists, policymakers, monastic representatives, and cultural institutions from around the world to focus on safeguarding rural Buddhist heritage sites often overlooked amidst urban landmarks. The event was inaugurated with traditional rituals and keynotes from luminaries like Padma Vibhushan Dr. Karan Singh and Dharma teacher Shantum Seth.​

Chairman SK Misra highlighted ITRHD’s ongoing restoration projects and announced government support for establishing an Academy for Rural Heritage Conservation in Andhra Pradesh. This academy will train conservationists, empower local communities, and blend traditional and modern preservation techniques.​

Speakers stressed the interconnection between heritage protection and community wellbeing. They urged collective “sangha work” involving artisans, scholars, and policymakers to revive India’s Buddhist legacy and boost spiritual and cultural tourism.​

The conference also saw the release of the latest ITRHD Journal on Buddhist Studies and closed with a call for collaborative, sustained efforts to secure these priceless cultural assets for future generations.​

Key Highlights

Three-day international conference at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi.​

Focus on documenting, conserving, and restoring rural Buddhist heritage (often undocumented and vulnerable).​

Launch of a rural Buddhist heritage conservation academy supported by Andhra Pradesh government.​

Contributions from global spiritual leaders, policymakers, conservation experts, and artisans.​

Emphasis on community involvement as primary custodians for heritage preservation.​

Integrated heritage protection with rural development and livelihoods.​

Release of new ITRHD Journal on Buddhist Studies during the conference.​

Sources: The Tribune, ANI News.​