Nongtaw, Apr 17: In a momentous event held at the Mahabodhi Centre in Nongtaw, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein joined the foundation stone laying ceremony for three landmark Buddhist projects, marking a major milestone in Arunachal Pradesh’s journey towards becoming a global hub for Theravāda Buddhist learning and spiritual tourism.
The event witnessed the ceremonial laying of foundation stones for the 108-ft Phra Maha Sutong-Pe (Wish-Fulfilling Buddha Statue) by Most Venerable Kassapa Mahathera, President of the Mahabodhi Society, Bengaluru and its sister organizations; the Vajirasana Buddha Vihara (Diamond Throne Buddha Temple with a capacity for 1,000 devotees) by Most Venerable Aggadhamma Mahathera, Chief Abbot of the Pariyatti Sasana Buddha Vihara, Namsai; and the Mahabodhi Sanghāvāsa, a monastic residence for 100 monks, by Most Venerable Dhammakitti Mahathera, President of the Arunachal Pradesh Bhikkhu Sangha.
These spiritually significant initiatives are poised to transform Namsai into a prominent centre of global Buddhist pilgrimage, education, and peace.
The vision behind these projects was first conceived by the late Most Venerable Acharya Buddharakkhita, founder of the Mahabodhi Society, whose dream of establishing eight Dhamma centres across Arunachal Pradesh continues to inspire generations of Buddhist practitioners and institutions.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Chief Minister, Chowna Mein emphasised that these structures are more than mere buildings, they represent a revival of spiritual identity and a renewed commitment to the values of the Dhamma. He highlighted how these initiatives form the core of a broader mission to transform Nongtaw into a vibrant centre of Buddhist learning and tourism. He said that institutions like Mahabodhi Lord Buddha Collegeand the Mahabodhi Skill Development Centre will provide both academic and vocational opportunities, empowering local youth through skill.
Reflecting on the recent success of the Maha Sangken Festival, Mein underlined the importance of preserving and promoting Arunachal’s unique spiritual and cultural heritage. He envisioned for the creation of a comprehensive Buddhist Circuit, linking sacred sites across Namsai, Mechuka, Tuting, Itanagar, West Kameng, and Tawang. Describing it as a “path of Dhamma - of light, learning, and peace,” he expressed hope that such an initiative would unite communities and attract pilgrims and seekers from around the world.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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