The Dhamma Dipa International Buddhist University (DDIBU), a significant milestone in the educational sphere, is set to be established in Sabroom, South Tripura district. The foundation stone for this esteemed institution will be laid on November 29, 2022. Anticipated to become India’s first Buddhist-run university, DDIBU aims at not only imparting Buddhist education but also offering courses in various other modern educational disciplines.
Buddhism, the religion upon which this university is based, emerged over 2,600 years ago in India. Centred around the teachings and life experiences of Siddhartha Gautama – its founder, Buddhism encapsulates the concepts of the four noble truths and the eight-fold path, focusing on suffering’s cause, cessation, and the path leading to its end.
Buddhist Teachings: The Four Noble Truths and The Eight-Fold Path
The teaching of Buddhism centres on understanding that suffering or dukkha is an innate characteristic of the world. Every suffering has a cause known as samudya, and it can be extinguished, termed as nirodha, by following the Atthanga Magga or Eight-Fold Path.
This Eight-Fold Path comprises interconnected activities tied to knowledge, conduct and meditative practices:
1. Right view
2. Right intention
3. Right speech
4. Right action
5. Right livelihood
6. Right mindfulness
7. Right effort
8. Right concentration
In Buddhism, enlightenment or nirvana, an experience rather than a place, is the ultimate goal one strives to achieve in life. Unlike many religions, Buddhism doesn’t venerate a supreme God or deity.
Schools of Buddhism and Buddhist Texts
Buddhism is divided into several schools such as Mahayana, Hinayana, Theravada, Vajrayana, and Zen. These different schools have unique approaches to Buddhism, with some including idol worship and others practicing tantric Buddhism.
Three main texts form the basis of Buddhist teachings, collectively known as Tipitaka. These are Vinaya Pitaka (monastic rules), Sutta Pitaka (Buddha’s primary teachings), and Abidhamma Pitaka (philosophical analysis of the teachings).
Significance of Buddhist Councils
Buddhist councils play a significant role in the faith, serving as platforms for discussing and preserving the Buddha’s teachings. These councils have contributed to the growth and evolution of Buddhism over centuries, leading to the birth of different schools of thought.
Buddhism’s Contribution to Indian Culture
Buddhism has profoundly influenced Indian culture. Most notably, it introduced the concept of ahimsa or non-violence, which later became a fundamental value of the nation. Its influence can be seen in the splendid architectural marvels like the stupas at Sanchi, Bharhut, and Gaya.
Furthermore, Buddhism promoted education through residential universities at Taxila, Nalanda, and Vikramasila. It fostered the development of languages such as Pali and other local tongues, and facilitated the spread of Indian culture across Asia.
Buddhist Heritage Sites and Global Recognition
Several UNESCO Heritage Sites in India are connected to Buddhism, including the Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara at Nalanda, Bihar; Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi, MP; Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya, Bihar; and the Ajanta Caves in Aurangabad, Maharashtra.
Moreover, the unique Buddhist chanting of Ladakh was included in UNESCO’s Representative List of Humanity’s Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2012, testifying to Buddhism’s global cultural significance.
Promotion of Buddhism in India
Several initiatives have been launched to promote Buddhism within the country. The establishment of the Dhamma Dipa International Buddhist University is one such significant initiative meant to spread the principles and teachings of Buddhism and enrich the cultural and educational landscape of India.
