Amidst the hallowed precincts of Lumbini, Nepal, the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) has orchestrated a momentous occasion – the Bhumi Pujan ceremony, signifying the commencement of the India International Centre for Buddhist Culture and Heritage (IICBCH). Nestled within the revered Lumbini Monastic Zone, this forthcoming establishment aspires to transcend geographical boundaries, beckoning pilgrims and devotees worldwide to partake in an immersive voyage through the heart of Buddhist spiritual ethos.
The center’s architectural vision takes inspiration from the lotus, a symbol synonymous with purity and spiritual enlightenment. In its unfolding journey, the structure will metamorphose over an estimated span of eighteen months, culminating in the realization of a symbolically and aesthetically profound edifice.
Within its contemporary contours, the IICBCH will encompass an array of amenities encompassing prayer halls, meditation sanctuaries, repositories of wisdom, exhibition galleries, culinary havens, and administrative domains. This endeavor champions ecological responsibility, aligning with modern sustainability standards. The edifice is engineered to achieve Net-Zero compliance, an emblem of its minimal environmental footprint achieved through prudent energy consumption, water conservation, and waste management.
Situated in Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, this locale occupies a revered space within the Buddhist Circuit, a constellation of pilgrimage sites of deep spiritual significance. The Buddhist Circuit extends to include Bodh Gaya (where enlightenment was attained), Sarnath (site of the first sermon), and Kushinagar (final resting place) – all vital chapters in Lord Buddha’s narrative that continue to resonate with devotees and truth-seekers alike.
Headquartered in Delhi, the International Buddhist Confederation stands as a beacon of the Buddhist faith, orchestrating its influence on the global stage. The organization’s overarching mission involves safeguarding our cultural heritage, proliferating wisdom, and championing our guiding principles.
Noteworthy on the national front, the Prime Minister of Nepal, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, graced the occasion with his presence, underscoring the significance of the event and its far-reaching implications for spiritual enrichment and cultural preservation.