Nagpur: The serene Dragon Palace Temple in Kamptee, Nagpur, marked its 25th anniversary with a grand celebration that resonated with the timeless teachings of the Buddha and underscored the deep ties between India and Japan. Organized in partnership with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), the event drew nearly 5,000 attendees, including monks, dignitaries, and devotees from across the globe.
The highlight of the event was a ceremonial march by Japanese monks, who arrived with the harmonious sounds of conchs and drums blending with chanting in Japanese. The morning prayers at the main monastery were led by Ven. Nichiyu (Kansen) Mochida and a delegation of venerable monks from Japan, emphasizing the shared spiritual heritage of the two nations.
The event also celebrated the enduring contributions of the Ogawa Society of Japan, whose generous support helped establish the iconic temple complex. Representing the society, Takako Tanaka, daughter of Mahaupasika Madam Noriko Ogawa, joined the celebrations. Madam Ogawa, in collaboration with Sulekhatai Kumbhare, played a pivotal role in creating the Dragon Palace Temple, a beacon of Buddhist teachings and culture in the region.
Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, graced the occasion with their presence.
Shekhawat highlighted the temple’s significance as a symbol of India-Japan cultural cooperation and its role in promoting the Buddha Dhamma. “The Dragon Palace Temple reflects the dedication of this region’s people and our Japanese friends to the timeless teachings of Lord Buddha. This bond will continue to inspire deeper cooperation between Buddhist domains in India and Japan,” he said. The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to developing Buddhist sites in Maharashtra, including the Dragon Palace Temple, as part of larger national and international Buddhist tourism circuits.
Kiren Rijiju paid tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s profound influence in spreading the message of Buddhism in Maharashtra. He emphasized the enduring relevance of Dr. Ambedkar’s philosophy, noting his vision of integrating liberty, equality, and fraternity within the framework of Dhamma. “Dr. Ambedkar’s transformative ideas have not only endured but gained fresh significance over time. His call for a doctrinal framework aligned with democratic values has reshaped priorities for millions,” said Rijiju.
The celebrations were a testament to the temple’s role as a hub of Buddhist learning and cultural exchange. International and Indian monks representing the IBC participated, sharing insights and fostering unity among Buddhist communities.
The Dragon Palace Temple, with its striking architecture and tranquil ambiance, stands as a symbol of peace and the enduring legacy of Buddha’s teachings. As it enters its 26th year, the temple continues to inspire spiritual growth and strengthen the ties between India and Japan, uniting people in their shared commitment to compassion and wisdom.