"The inaugural International Buddhist Forum (IBF) was held from the 17th to the 19th of August. The objectives of the Forum was to draw increased attention to the understanding of Buddhist culture, philosophy, and practice in the conditions of modernity; to strengthen international ties among Buddhists; and to give new impetus to scholarly, academic, and cultural cooperation among Buddhist organisations from different countries. Organised by the Buddhist Traditional Sangha of Russia, the Government of Buryatia, and the Fund for the Promotion of Buddhist Education and Research, this event welcomed approximately 400 delegates, including 80 from 14 countries. Greeting messages sent from President Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergei Lavrov, and Chairman of the Federation Council Valentina Matvienko were read during the opening ceremony, underscoring the significance of this international gathering."
International Buddhist Confederation delegation to IBF led by senior monk and recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri award, Ven. Guru Tulku Rinpoche. While addressing the August gathering at the opening session on the second day he said “The Buddha’s message of compassion, non-violence, and inner peace remains as vital today as it was when he first imparted it over two millennia ago. In a world marred by turmoil, conflict, and the clamour of modernity, the resonance of the Buddha’s peace message grows stronger. In this spirit of universal harmony, we gather to engage in insightful discourse, foster connections, and envision a world where the essence of the Buddhist principles guides our individual and collective paths”.
The first of it’s kind, the International Buddhist Forum (IBF) in Russia tried to bridge the gap between traditional Buddhist values and the complex challenges of the modern era, bringing together diverse representatives from around the world, fostering meaningful interactions, and generating tangible outcomes in the form of resolutions and collaborative initiatives.
The forum demonstrated the potential of cultural exchange, religious dialogue, and shared concerns to create a more harmonious and interconnected global society.
On the sidelines of the IBF, Ven. Guru Tulku Rinpoche had the privilege of meeting with distinguished Buddhist leaders, further strengthening the bonds within the global Buddhist community. Among these luminaries were the XXIV Pandito Khabo Lama of the Buddhist Traditional Sangha of Russia, Damba Ayusheev of the Ivolginsky Datsan, Gelek Natsyk Dorju, The Ninth Kamby Lama of Tuva, Legtsok Lama, Head Lama of the Aninsky Datsan, and Buda Balzheivich Badmayev, Head Priest of Datsan Gunzechoinei Buddhist Temple in St. Petersburg. These interactions fostered unity and shared purpose among leaders who are custodians of Buddhist traditions in their respective regions.
Guru Tulku Rinpoche paid a visit to the Moscow Buddhist Society in Moscow and he was invited to give a teaching on Buddhist philosophy by the president of the Society Dolma Shakdarowa. The teaching was attended by 20-25 people and it lasted for two hours. There was question and answer session after the teaching.
He also visited the Myanmar Pagoda in place called Etnomir, which is 110 km from the Moscow.
Delegates at the Ivolginsky Datsan
Opening session speech by Ven. Guru Tulku Rinpoche at Ivolginsky Datsan
Dr. Arvind Kumar Singh, part of the IBC delegation participated in the first session.
Ven. Guru Tulku Rinpoche with Buda Balzheivich Badmayev, Head Priest of Datsan Gunzechoinei Buddhist Temple in St. Petersburg
Ven. Guru Tulku Rinpoche presenting a token of gift to XXIV Pandito Khabo Lama of the Buddhist Traditional Sangha of Russia, Damba Ayusheev.
Indian Ambassador to Russia HE Pavan Kapoor with XXIV Pandito Khabo Lama of the Buddhist Traditional Sangha of Russia, Damba Ayusheev
Lunch hosted by XXIV Pandito Khabo at Ivolginsky Datsan
Ven. 19th Kushok Bakula statue at Ivolginsky Datsan gifted by IBC
Mongolian Kanjur at Ivolginsky Datsan gifted by IBC
Guru Rinpoche at the Myanmar Pagoda in Etnomir Village
At the Moscow Buddhist Society with Guru Tulku Rinpoche hosted by Dolma Shakdarowa
Guru Tulku Rinpoche gave Teaching on Buddhist Philosophy for One and a half hours at the Moscow Buddhist Society.
At the Indian embassy in Moscow with the Indian ambassador Pavan Kapoor
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