In a significant step towards positioning Arunachal Pradesh as a global hub for Theravāda Buddhist learning and spiritual tourism, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein today participated in the foundation stone laying ceremony of three major Buddhist projects at the Mahabodhi Centre, Nongtaw in Namsai district.
The spiritually charged event was graced by revered monastic leaders and dignitaries. Among the highlights was the laying of the foundation stone for the 108-ft Phra Maha Sutong-Pe (Wish-Fulfilling Buddha Statue) by Most Venerable Kassapa Mahathera, President of the Mahabodhi Society, Bengaluru. This towering statue is envisioned to be a symbol of peace and spiritual fulfilment.
The ceremony also marked the beginning of the Vajirasana Buddha Vihara (Diamond Throne Buddha Temple), capable of accommodating 1,000 devotees, led by Most Venerable Aggadhamma Mahathera, Chief Abbot of the Pariyatti Sasana Buddha Vihara, Namsai. In addition, Most Venerable Dhammakitti Mahathera, President of the Arunachal Pradesh Bhikkhu Sangha, laid the foundation for the Mahabodhi Sanghāvāsa, a residential complex for 100 monks.
These landmark projects are part of a grand vision originally conceived by the late Most Venerable Acharya Buddharakkhita, founder of the Mahabodhi Society. His dream of establishing eight Dhamma centers across Arunachal continues to guide the spiritual journey of the region.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein described the projects as “not mere structures, but spiritual beacons of identity, heritage, and hope.” He highlighted the role of institutions like Mahabodhi Lord Buddha College and the Mahabodhi Skill Development Centre in empowering local youth through both academic and vocational opportunities.
Mein also reflected on the cultural vibrancy witnessed during the recent Maha Sangken Festival, reiterating the need to preserve and promote Arunachal’s unique spiritual traditions. He proposed the creation of a Buddhist Circuit, connecting sacred sites in Namsai, Mechuka, Tuting, Itanagar, West Kameng, and Tawang—calling it a “Path of Dhamma — of light, learning, and peace.”
The event drew a significant gathering of monastic figures and elected leaders, including Ven. Vimalatissa Bhikkhu, Chief Abbot of Kongmu Kham, and MLAs Chau Zingnu Namchoom, Jikke Tako, Phurpa Tsering, Tseten Chombay, Rotom Tebin, Tenzin Nyima Glow, Hayeng Mangfi, Topin Ete, and Pesi Jilen.
With these developments, Nongtaw in Namsai is set to emerge as a prominent node in the global Buddhist pilgrimage network—ushering in a new era of peace, knowledge, and spiritual rejuvenation in Arunachal Pradesh.(pr)