2nd International Buddhist Media Conclave Kicks Off with Emphasis on “Mindful Communication”

New Delhi: The 2nd International Buddhist Media Conclave, themed “Mindful Communication for Conflict Avoidance and Sustainable Development,” was inaugurated today by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) and the Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF). The event, held in New Delhi, featured a distinguished lineup of speakers and guests, including Baichung Bhutia, former captain of the Indian Football Team, who graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour.

The conclave began with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony led by Gurumurthy, Chairman of VIF; Ven Jangchuk Choeden, Secretary General of IBC; Dr. Arvind Gupta, Director of VIF; and three-time Grammy Award winner Ricky Kej. The ceremony set the tone for the day’s discussions on integrating Buddhist principles into media practices for global peace and sustainable development.

Baichung Bhutia highlighted the profound influence of Buddhism on promoting peace and brotherhood. He described Buddhism as a way of life, emphasizing that the teachings of Buddha carry messages of peace and sacrifice. “Buddhism has a major role in ensuring global peace, and the media will be crucial in disseminating these teachings worldwide,” Bhutia asserted.

Dr. Arvind Gupta, Director of VIF, underscored the importance of integrating thought and action to restore civilizational values. He stressed the need for media to adopt the ethical conduct and enlightenment emphasized in Buddhism to ensure balanced and ethical reporting.

IBC Secretary General Shartse Khensur Rinpoche Jangchup Choeden called for a world guided by truthfulness, compassion, and altruism—the core attributes of Buddha’s teachings. In an era marked by rising greed and conflicts, he emphasized the urgent need for the guidance of Buddha to address these global challenges.

Chairman of VIF, Gurumurthy, reflected on the significant philosophical contributions of India, contrasting them with the damage done to the world in recent centuries. He highlighted the relevance of India’s philosophical traditions, particularly Buddhism, for modern communication and media practices.

Interacting with the media, IBC DG Abhijit Halder expressed enthusiasm about the event’s success and the positive response from participants. He announced plans for the next conclave to be organized on a larger scale, emphasizing that it is high time the teachings of Buddha on conflict avoidance and sustainable development are embraced globally. “As the land of Buddha, India holds a unique attraction and responsibility in spreading these teachings,” Halder noted.