Odisha has become the focal point of global attention as over 1200 Buddhist monks from 17 countries, including India, gathered to participate in the inaugural Guru Padmasambhava Chanting Program, which commenced on Sunday, January 14, and will continue until January 16. The event, held to honor the spiritual legacy of Guru Padmasambhava—revered as the “Second Buddha”—has attracted monks, scholars, and devotees from countries such as Bhutan, Laos, Thailand, and the United States.
Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, is credited with spreading Buddhism to Tibet and the Himalayan regions. His teachings have become the cornerstone of Vajrayana Buddhism. He is considered a “Second Buddha” due to his pivotal role in establishing Buddhist practices and doctrines in regions far beyond India.
According to the Head of the Padmasambhava Monastery in Jiranga, many historians believe that Guru Padmasambhava may have been born in Odisha. This belief has amplified the importance of holding this global chanting program in the state. “From here, he carried the Buddha Dharma to Tibet and the rest of the Himalayas,” the monk emphasized.
The chanting program is a sacred gathering for Buddhists, especially during these uncertain times. A monk from America shared his thoughts, stating, “We are here to pray for Guru Rinpoche. These are sacred events to have all the monks pray together at this time. The world is very uncertain, with wildfires in Odisha and earthquakes in Tibet. We want to pray for peace.” The event is also seen as a platform to highlight global concerns, such as environmental crises and instability, while fostering hope and unity through spiritual practices.
Rabindra Narayan Behera, a Member of Parliament from Jajpur, Odisha, highlighted the region’s historical and cultural importance. He noted that Jajpur is home to several key historical events and achievements: It is the birthplace of the national song Vande Mataram. It was part of the ancient Toshali Dynasty under Emperor Ashoka, with its capital in Radhanagar. Jajpur has long been a center of intellectual and cultural excellence.
The program also served as an opportunity to promote Odisha as a global hub for Buddhist tourism. Sikkim’s Minister, Sonam Lama, expressed his gratitude to the Government of Odisha and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for organizing this event. He emphasized the importance of developing Odisha’s Buddhist heritage sites, such as Ratnagiri, Lalitgiri, and Udayagiri, into prominent tourist destinations. “Wherever there is a Buddhist shrine, tourists and devotees visit for blessings. I hope this program will be held every year to boost both Dharma and tourism in Odisha,” he said.
The Guru Padmasambhava Chanting Program included: Processions and public gatherings, showcasing the rich spiritual heritage of Buddhism, Participation from dignitaries, including ministers, scholars, and monks from various countries, Prayers and chanting aimed at promoting global peace and harmony.
The event has been described as a long-awaited aspiration for Buddhists worldwide who follow the teachings of Guru Padmasambhava. The gathering not only celebrates the Guru’s legacy but also serves as a reminder of Odisha’s pivotal role in the history and spread of Buddhism.
The first Guru Padmasambhava Chanting Program in Odisha marks a historic moment, bringing together spiritual leaders and devotees from around the globe. By honoring the life and teachings of Guru Padmasambhava, the event fosters peace, cultural exchange, and recognition of Odisha as a vital center for Buddhist heritage.
Odisha has become the focal point of global attention as over 1200 Buddhist monks from 17 countries, including India, gathered to participate in the inaugural Guru Padmasambhava Chanting Program, which commenced on Sunday, January 14, and will continue until January 16. The event, held to honor the spiritual legacy of Guru Padmasambhava—revered as the “Second Buddha”—has attracted monks, scholars, and devotees from countries such as Bhutan, Laos, Thailand, and the United States.
Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, is credited with spreading Buddhism to Tibet and the Himalayan regions. His teachings have become the cornerstone of Vajrayana Buddhism. He is considered a “Second Buddha” due to his pivotal role in establishing Buddhist practices and doctrines in regions far beyond India.
According to the Head of the Padmasambhava Monastery in Jiranga, many historians believe that Guru Padmasambhava may have been born in Odisha. This belief has amplified the importance of holding this global chanting program in the state. “From here, he carried the Buddha Dharma to Tibet and the rest of the Himalayas,” the monk emphasized.
The chanting program is a sacred gathering for Buddhists, especially during these uncertain times. A monk from America shared his thoughts, stating, “We are here to pray for Guru Rinpoche. These are sacred events to have all the monks pray together at this time. The world is very uncertain, with wildfires in Odisha and earthquakes in Tibet. We want to pray for peace.” The event is also seen as a platform to highlight global concerns, such as environmental crises and instability, while fostering hope and unity through spiritual practices.
Rabindra Narayan Behera, a Member of Parliament from Jajpur, Odisha, highlighted the region’s historical and cultural importance. He noted that Jajpur is home to several key historical events and achievements: It is the birthplace of the national song Vande Mataram. It was part of the ancient Toshali Dynasty under Emperor Ashoka, with its capital in Radhanagar. Jajpur has long been a center of intellectual and cultural excellence.
The program also served as an opportunity to promote Odisha as a global hub for Buddhist tourism. Sikkim’s Minister, Sonam Lama, expressed his gratitude to the Government of Odisha and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for organizing this event. He emphasized the importance of developing Odisha’s Buddhist heritage sites, such as Ratnagiri, Lalitgiri, and Udayagiri, into prominent tourist destinations. “Wherever there is a Buddhist shrine, tourists and devotees visit for blessings. I hope this program will be held every year to boost both Dharma and tourism in Odisha,” he said.
The Guru Padmasambhava Chanting Program included: Processions and public gatherings, showcasing the rich spiritual heritage of Buddhism, Participation from dignitaries, including ministers, scholars, and monks from various countries, Prayers and chanting aimed at promoting global peace and harmony.
The event has been described as a long-awaited aspiration for Buddhists worldwide who follow the teachings of Guru Padmasambhava. The gathering not only celebrates the Guru’s legacy but also serves as a reminder of Odisha’s pivotal role in the history and spread of Buddhism.
The first Guru Padmasambhava Chanting Program in Odisha marks a historic moment, bringing together spiritual leaders and devotees from around the globe. By honoring the life and teachings of Guru Padmasambhava, the event fosters peace, cultural exchange, and recognition of Odisha as a vital center for Buddhist heritage.
