The 7th International Buddhist Conference on Buddhist Heritage to the World, was held on 20^th September 2026 in Surat, Gujarat and organised by the Sanghakaya Foundation with the support and cooperation of Gujarat Tourism, the Government of Gujarat, and the International Buddhist Confederation, New Delhi. The conference brought together monks, nuns, scholars and delegates from across India and around the world. Participants from Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, the United States and Europe, reflected the conference’s international character. Distinguished Sangha leaders included Venerable Dr. Pornchai Palawadhammo, President of the World Alliance of Buddhists, Thailand; and Venerable Professor Lee Chi-Ran of South Korea.

Peace March as part of the 7th International Buddhist Conference in Surat, Gujarat.

Prior to the conference, an International Peace Walk was organised in Surat carrying Gautam Buddha’s message of peace, compassion, harmony and human unity, followed by archaeological presentations highlighting Devni Mori, the ancient Vallabhi University and Vallabhi Nagari, Vadnagar, and the Sacred Relics of the Buddha preserved in Gujarat. It was followed by a respectful offering of Sanghādana offered to monks and nuns as an expression of faith, generosity and gratitude. Robes and other items were presented to the members of the Sangha.

The conference commenced with the reading of the Preamble of the Constitution of India, by all present, reaffirming their commitment to justice, liberty, equality, fraternity and human dignity.

The 7^th International Buddhist Conference on Buddhist Heritage provided a meaningful global platform for eminent monks, nuns, spiritual leaders, scholars and delegates to share their wisdom, experience and vision for a peaceful world. The speakers reflected on the Buddha’s timeless teachings of peace, compassion, Maitri, non-violence and human unity.

Addressing the gathering, Venerable Dr. Khemachara, Deputy Secretary General (DSG) of the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), highlighted the enduring legacy of the Buddha Dhamma. He affirmed that thematically, the programmes and events of the IBC consistently uphold peace, liberty, equality and harmony, which are the timeless principles taught by the Buddha over 2,500 years ago. The DSG also noted that, with the support of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and under the visionary leadership of Hon'ble Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the IBC has successfully organised significant international events, including the Global Buddhist Summits, Asian Buddhist Summit, Abhidhamma Divas, Pali's recognition as a classical language etc. He also acknowledged and highlighted the PM’s initiative in sending from India the Sacred Relics of the Buddha to various countries enabling millions of devotees there to venerate and receive blessings.

Most Venerable Dr. Prof. Lee Chi-Ran (Woneung Bogeom), Representative of World Buddhist Network Korea; Chancellor of Gangwon Buddhist University and Member IBC described the Conference and Peace Walk as meaningful platforms for promoting compassion, peace and international Buddhist cooperation. Impressed by Gujarat’s rich Buddhist heritage and the Sacred Relics preserved at the Maharaja Sayajirao University Museum, Vadodara, he encouraged further archaeological research and continued peace initiatives. He expressed his deepest gratitude to the organisers for this important international gathering. Venerable Dr. Pornchai Palawadhammo, President of the World Alliance of Buddhists (WAB), and member IBC from Thailand, spoke about India’s rich Buddhist heritage and its global significance. He also encouraged greater spiritual learning, cultural exchange and Buddhist cooperation between India and Thailand.

The day long conference concluded with a vibrant cultural programme, featuring a special performance by Mr. Sandeep Tribhuvan, and his talented team. Through music, dance and artistic presentations, the performers showcased Buddhist values, India’s cultural diversity and the spirit of international friendship.