The Dragon Palace Temple in Kamptee, Nagpur, observed its
25th anniversary with a splendid celebration on November 15, 2024. The event
saw the confluence of international and Indian dignitaries, including Union
Ministers Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Shri Kiren Rijiju, alongside a
contingent of Japanese monks led by Ven. Nichiyu (Kansen) Mochida.
The Ogawa Society of Japan, instrumental in the temple’s
construction, was represented by about 50 monks who participated in a lively
march, featuring conchs, drums, and traditional Japanese chanting. The event
was co-organized by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) and
witnessed the attendance of around 5,000 people from Kamptee and other parts of
Nagpur.
Ms. Takako Tanaka, daughter of Mahaupasika Madam Noriko
Ogawa, graced the occasion. Madam Ogawa, in association with Ms. Sulekhatai
Kumbhare, the owner and host of the temple complex, played a key part in
establishing the Dragon Palace Temple, now a sign of Indo-Japanese partnership
and Buddhist heritage.
In his speech, Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri
Gajendra Singh Shekhawat praised the temple as a testament to the shared
devotion of the region's people and their Japanese peers to the Buddha Dhamma.
He stressed the government’s goals to develop Buddhist sites in Maharashtra,
including incorporating the Dragon Palace Temple into a more extensive
nationwide Buddhist circuit.
Union Minister Shri Kiren Rijiju emphasized the deep impact
of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar in promoting Buddhism and its values in Maharashtra.
"Babasaheb's vision of a doctrinal framework embedded in liberty,
equality, and fraternity stays applicable today," he stated, adding that
Ambedkar’s contributions have greatly influenced society and continue to
inspire transformative change.
The celebrations spread over three days, featuring chanting
rituals and cultural programs on November 16 and 17, showcasing the rich Buddhist
traditions and promoting cross-cultural ties.
The Dragon Palace Temple, with its subdued architecture and
spiritual value, continues to act as a beacon of tranquility and a bridge
between India and Japan’s Buddhist communities. (PR)