Modi emphasises Pali's importance as a classical language at Abhidhamma Divas ceremony
- In Reports
- 03:04 PM, Oct 17, 2024
- Myind Staff
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed a ceremony in New Delhi today to celebrate International Abhidhamma Divas and the recognition of Pali as a classical language. The occasion highlights the descent of Lord Buddha from the celestial realm after teaching Abhidhamma, and the recent recognition of Pali enhances this year’s celebrations as Lord Buddha's teachings are originally available in this language.
During his address, PM Modi emphasised the significance of Pali in understanding Dhamma, stating, "Abhidhamma is contained in Dhamma; to understand Dhamma in its essence, knowledge of Pali language is necessary." He described language as more than a means of communication, saying, "Language is the soul of civilisation and culture." He lamented that India was previously left behind in honouring its heritage but noted, "the country is now moving ahead free from inferiority complex, taking big decisions."
PM Modi noted that since the introduction of the New Education Policy, where youth have the option to study in their mother tongue, languages are becoming stronger. He stated, "Today, India is engaged in fulfilling both the resolutions of rapid development and rich heritage simultaneously." He highlighted India's renaissance of Lord Buddha's legacy as part of reinventing its culture and civilisation.
He appealed to the world on this Abhidhamma Parva, urging, "find solutions not in war but in teachings of Lord Buddha, paving the path of peace." The Prime Minister articulated that Buddha's message is one of prosperity for all humanity, emphasising that "the teachings of Lord Buddha will guide us in the roadmap that India has made for its development."
The Prime Minister expressed happiness that this year's Abhidhamma Divas was especially significant due to the recognition of Pali as a classical language, stating, "The honour accorded to Pali by recognition as a classical language is a tribute to the great legacy and heritage of Lord Buddha." He underscored the importance of keeping Pali alive today, describing it as a shared responsibility.
Highlighting India’s rich heritage, PM Modi noted, "Heritage of language, literature, art, and spirituality of any society defines its existence." He acknowledged that India lagged behind in preserving its identity due to historical invasions and the mentality of slavery that followed independence. "India is now moving ahead from that inferiority complex and taking big decisions," he said, pointing out that Pali and Marathi were both granted classical status recently.
"The various languages of India nourish our diversity," the Prime Minister remarked, emphasising the role of language in nation-building. He mentioned the New Education Policy as a medium for preserving these languages, noting that "mother tongues were becoming stronger."
Explaining the vision of 'Panch Pran,' PM Modi stated that it involves building a developed India, freeing the country from a slave mentality, and taking pride in its heritage. He highlighted that the conservation of heritage related to Lord Buddha is a priority of the Panch Pran campaign.
In terms of development projects, PM Modi shared details about initiatives related to Lord Buddha in India and Nepal, including the opening of an international airport in Kushinagar and the construction of a Buddhist Culture Centre in Lumbini. He expressed pride in the return of over 600 ancient artefacts to India in the last decade, many of which relate to Buddhism, saying, "India is presenting its culture and civilization in a new way."
The Prime Minister emphasised India's commitment to promoting Lord Buddha’s teachings for the benefit of humanity. He mentioned that many nations, including Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, are compiling Pali language commentaries. To promote Pali, he stated, "The government is accelerating efforts using traditional methods and modern approaches like online platforms."
He asserted that "Buddha is both knowledge and inquiry," stressing the importance of research in understanding his teachings. PM Modi recognised that the teachings of Buddha are essential in today’s world, saying, "India has not given the world war, but Buddha," and called upon everyone to learn from Buddha, rejecting war in favour of peace.
Noting that India has identified the next 25 years as Amrit Kaal, PM Modi declared this period will be one of progress, where Lord Buddha's teachings guide India's development roadmap. He reiterated India's efforts to tackle climate change and share solutions globally, stating, "India is not only finding solutions for these challenges on its own but is also sharing them with the world."
Reciting a teaching of Lord Buddha, he said, “Any form of goodness should be started by ourselves," linking it to the idea of Mission LiFE, which emphasises sustainable living. The Prime Minister highlighted various initiatives, such as the International Solar Alliance and the Global Biofuel Alliance, reflecting Buddha's thoughts and India's commitment to a sustainable future.
Concluding his address, PM Modi emphasised that India is progressing while strengthening its roots, stating, "The goal is for India’s youth to lead the world in science and technology while taking pride in their culture and values." He expressed confidence that India will continue to advance with the teachings of Lord Buddha guiding its path.
The event was attended by Union Minister of Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Shri Kiren Rijiju, among others.
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