International Buddhist Confederation Launches Book on Bangladesh’s Buddhist Heritage
New Delhi, Apr 23: The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) launched noted author Sunita Dwivedi’s latest historiographical travelogue, On The Buddha’s Trail In Bangladesh, at the India International Centre, highlighting the rich and expansive Buddhist heritage of Bangladesh and its deep cultural links with the wider Asian region.
Delivering the keynote address, Abhijit Halder, Director General of IBC, emphasized the immense and often underrepresented Buddhist heritage of India and its neighboring regions. He underscored the importance of promoting, preserving, and showcasing this legacy globally.
Strengthening Global Buddhist Connections
Shri Halder lauded the efforts of Narendra Modi in promoting the international exposition of Buddha’s relics. He noted that such expositions have been organized by IBC in countries including Mongolia, Thailand, Vietnam, Bhutan, Kalmykia, and Sri Lanka, helping strengthen cultural and spiritual ties across nations.
He also highlighted major initiatives such as the Second Global Buddhist Summit 2026 and the Asian Buddhist Summit, which reinforce India’s central role in fostering Buddhist heritage and cooperation across Asia.
Showcasing Bangladesh’s Role in Buddhist History
The newly launched book is part of Sunita Dwivedi’s larger series on the Buddhist Heritage of the Asian Silk Road, which includes works on Pakistan, Afghanistan, Central Asia, and China. With this addition, Bangladesh is positioned as a vital southern link in the broader Buddhist circuit of Asia.
The book explores significant ancient sites such as Somapura, Mainamati, Jagaddala, and Bikrampur, which were once thriving centers of learning and monastic life. These institutions contributed immensely to the spread of Buddhism and the development of scholarly traditions across Asia.
Academic and Diplomatic Participation
The launch event was attended by eminent scholars and dignitaries including K. Warikoo, Veena Sikri, and Shashibala, who joined in unveiling the publication brought out by Rupa Publications.
Bangladesh: A Key Link in Buddhist Asia
Speakers highlighted Bangladesh’s historical importance as a hub of Buddhist scholarship and maritime connectivity. The region served as a gateway to Southeast Asia (Suvarnabhumi), facilitating cultural exchange and trade routes from early historical periods.
Ancient monastic centers in Bengal, supported by royal patronage, nurtured scholars who significantly influenced Buddhist traditions in Tibet, China, and Mongolia. Historical accounts, including those of Chinese traveler Xuanzang, reference a dense network of monasteries and thousands of monks across the region.
Preserving a Shared Heritage
The launch of On The Buddha’s Trail In Bangladesh reinforces the importance of documenting and preserving shared cultural and spiritual histories. It also highlights the role of literature and research in reconnecting modern audiences with the rich legacy of Buddhist civilization across Asia.
