In the heart of Russia’s Kalmykia region, the 3rd International Buddhist Forum—titled “The Buddhist World in the New Millennium”—kicked off with vibrant energy on September 25. This three-day gathering, running through September 28 in Elista’s Nomad Camp, drew more than 2,000 participants from over 35 countries. Think spiritual leaders, monks, and guests from places like India, Mongolia, Laos, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Malaysia, Cambodia, Nepal, Thailand, Bangladesh, and Vietnam all coming together to discuss Buddhism’s place in today’s fast-changing world.
India played a big role right from the start. The Ministry of Culture, teaming up with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), unveiled a captivating pictorial exhibition called “The Life and Teachings of Buddha.” It walks visitors through Buddha’s journey—from his birth to his Mahaparinirvana, or Great Demise—and dives into his timeless wisdom. Adding a modern twist, the IBC demoed Norbu, an AI chatbot in Russian that acts as a “Kalyana Mitra,” or spiritual friend. This virtual tool helps users grasp Buddha Dhamma, the core teachings of Buddhism, and the IBC proudly supports it as its global patron.
The opening gala felt like a bridge between ancient traditions and the present. Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a warm message, read by Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. They highlighted how Buddhist teachings shine in our era of global shifts, welcoming everyone to Kalmykia, a key hub for Buddhism in Russia alongside Buryatia and Tuva. These regions embraced Buddhism centuries ago—Kalmykia and Buryatia in the 17th century, Tuva in the 18th—and follow the Gelug tradition. Even today, young monks from here study at Indian monasteries, keeping those ties strong.
Shajin Lama of Kalmykia set the tone in his speech, greeting global guests and spotlighting the “Three Jewels” of Buddhism: the Buddha, Dharma (his teachings), and Sangha (the community). He called the forum a space for interfaith and intercultural chats built on respect, especially in diverse Russia where Buddhism ranks as a respected traditional faith. Putin himself has praised its role in fostering peace, harmony, and creativity.
Key speakers included top leaders like Kalmykia’s Head Batu Khasikov, Buryatia’s Geshe Tenzin Choydak, and Tuva’s Alexey Tsydenov. Prominent monks from China, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Nepal also shared insights. The first big session tackled “The Development of Buddhism in Russia,” showing how it unites communities, preserves moral values, and even honors Buddhist contributions to national defense in tough times. Experts talked about linking traditional areas with growing urban Buddhist groups in European Russia.
The second session, “The Influence of Buddhist Values on the Choice of Economic Priorities,” got everyone thinking. Speakers explored how principles like non-violence, compassion, and wisdom could spark kinder economic models—ones that build tough, caring communities in a digital age. They stressed saving old values while tackling modern issues head-on, like using tech to engage young people.
Buddhist education stole much of the spotlight. Leaders agreed on an eight-year curriculum and pushed for translating teachings into simple Russian. A big win came in 2022 with the launch of the Fund for the Promotion of Buddhist Education and Research, which boosts university programs and media efforts. Stories of interfaith harmony popped up too, including how martial arts and philosophy change lives. Pilgrimage and Buddhist tourism emerged as hot topics, blending spiritual growth with economic boosts for local spots.
The forum’s logo—a meditating Buddha on a lotus with techy roots—perfectly captures Buddhism’s knack for adapting to the digital world. Overall, the event painted Buddhism as a lively force for compassion, unity, and strength amid today’s challenges.
Longtime IBC collaborators joined the mix, like Myanmar’s Sayadaw Ashin Nyanissara, Bhutan’s Khenpo Ugen Namgyel, and Russia’s Geshe Yonten. Scholars such as Baatr Kitinov from Russia’s Institute of Oriental Studies, Delhi University’s Professor Ranjana Mukhopadhyaya, and others like Sasaki Ricardo and Chandan Kumar shared expertise on Buddhist studies and international ties. These regulars at IBC and Indian Ministry of Culture events keep the global conversation flowing.
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