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Category: History

Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics in Delhi

India Reunites with Its Sacred Buddhist Legacy Grand Exposition of Piprahwa Relics

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On 3rd January 2026, India marked a historic moment in the preservation of its spiritual and civilizational heritage with the inauguration of the Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi https://x.com/narendramodi/status/2007068034834583569 at the Rai Pithora Cultural Complex, New Delhi. Titled “The Light & the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One”, the exposition brings global attention to some of the earliest and most significant relics directly associated with Bhagwan Buddha. Discovered in 1898 at Piprahwa in present-day Siddharthnagar, Uttar Pradesh, these relics hold immense archaeological and spiritual value. The Piprahwa site is widely identified with ancient Kapilavastu, where Bhagwan Buddha spent his early life before renunciation. The relics include sacred bone fragments, inscribed reliquaries, and precious gems dating back to the Mauryan period, closely linked to Emperor Ashoka’s patronage of Buddhism. For the first time in over a century, relics recently repatriated to India have been brought together with authentic archaeological materials preserved at the National Museum, New Delhi, and the Indian Museum, Kolkata. This reunion symbolizes India’s sustained efforts to reclaim and safeguard its cultural treasures through institutional cooperation and innovative public-private partnerships. The exposition is thoughtfully curated and thematically organized. At its heart stands a reconstructed interpretive model inspired by the Sanchi Stupa, surrounded by sections such as Piprahwa Revisited, Vignettes of the Life of Buddha, The Aesthetic Language of Buddhist Teachings, Expansion of Buddhist Art Beyond Borders, and Repatriation of Cultural Artefacts. Together, they narrate the life, philosophy, and global journey of Buddhism. https://ibhforum.org/piprahwa-gems-and-the-sacred-relics-of-the-buddha/ Enhanced by immersive audio-visual experiences, digital reconstructions, and multimedia presentations, the exhibition makes ancient history accessible to scholars, devotees, and the general public alike. It not only showcases archaeological excellence but also conveys the timeless values of peace, compassion, and enlightenment taught by the Buddha. The exposition reaffirms India’s role as the birthplace of Buddhism and reflects a renewed commitment to preserving and sharing its spiritual heritage with the world. As visitors walk through “The Light & the Lotus,” they are invited to reconnect with the legacy of the Awakened One—one that continues to illuminate humanity’s path even today.

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Understanding Buddhism-Knowledge, Practice, and Society

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Many people in today’s world have very limited knowledge about Buddhism. Often, they hear the name of the religion but do not understand its teachings, values, or true origins. This lack of understanding can lead to confusion, wrong interpretations, and even false claims about where Buddhism began and what it teaches. To build a more peaceful and informed society, it is important to introduce people to Buddhism in the right way. Buddhism teaches wisdom, compassion, non-violence, and self-discipline. It does not force belief but encourages individuals to understand life through experience, mindfulness, and moral conduct. People who lack knowledge about Buddhism can begin by learning its basic principles, such as the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and the importance of meditation. Reading authentic texts, listening to learned monks, and visiting Buddhist centers can help people understand Buddhism beyond myths and assumptions. India holds a very important place in Buddhism because it is the land where Gautama Buddha was born, attained enlightenment, and spread his teachings. In India, Buddhism emphasizes ethical living, meditation, and respect for the Buddha’s teachings (Dharma). Many people worship and follow Buddhist rules with discipline, focusing on inner peace rather than blind rituals. India introduced Buddhism to many parts of Asia, including China, through monks, scholars, and ancient trade routes. China, however, is often seen practicing Buddhism differently. While many Chinese traditions focus less on prayer and more on philosophy or cultural practices, some claims suggest that Buddhism originated in China. This idea does not align with Buddhist history or teachings. Buddhism itself does not promote false claims or pride over origins. In fact, historical records clearly show that China learned Buddhism from India and later adapted it to its own culture, blending it with local beliefs. Over time, this led to the formation of distinct schools and practices that differ from original Buddhist teachings. To bring Buddhism positively into society, people should focus on its core message rather than political or cultural ownership. Buddhism teaches humility, truth, and right understanding—not competition or misinformation. By promoting education, honest history, interfaith respect, and ethical living, societies can benefit from Buddhist values such as peace, compassion, and wisdom. In conclusion, learning Buddhism begins with openness and truth. Recognizing its origins, respecting its teachings, and applying its values in daily life can help individuals and societies grow more peaceful and morally strong.

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How Buddhism Spread Across Europe — And India’s Timeless Role

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Buddhism, born over 2,500 years ago in northeastern India, remains one of the world’s most enduring spiritual traditions. From its origins under Prince Siddhartha Gautama in the ancient kingdoms of Magadha and Kosala, Buddhism’s message of peace, compassion, and inner transformation journeyed far beyond the Indian subcontinent — across Asia, through the ancient Silk Routes, and ultimately into Europe. India’s role in this global flowering is foundational not only as the cradle of the Buddha’s teachings but as the seedbed from which these teachings sprouted and adapted in new lands. Indo-Buddhist Heritage Forum+1 The Roots: India as the Cradle of Buddhism India’s contribution to Buddhism is profound. It is the land where Siddhartha attained enlightenment beneath the Bodhi Tree at Bodh Gaya and lived the dhamma that would transform human history. Under Indian patronage — most notably by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE — Buddhism expanded across the subcontinent, fostered monastic universities like Nalanda and Vikramashila, and forged networks of scholars and monks who carried the dhamma along trade routes into distant regions. Indo-Buddhist Heritage Forum+1 The Silk Route, an ancient network of land and sea pathways originating in northwestern India, became the vital conduit through which Buddhism traveled into Central Asia, China, Korea, Japan, and beyond. Merchants, pilgrims, monks, and artisans carried scriptures, art, and teachings — blending them with local cultures — establishing Buddhism as both a spiritual force and a cultural bridge across continents. Indo-Buddhist Heritage Forum+1 Early Contacts with the West Although Buddhism did not take strong institutional root in Europe in antiquity, early contact did occur. During and after the campaigns of Alexander the Great (4th century BCE), cultural exchange between Hellenistic and Indian spheres encouraged early forms of syncretism now known as Greco-Buddhism, particularly in the region of Gandhara (modern Pakistan and Afghanistan). There, Buddhist ideas and iconography intersected with Greek aesthetic influences, creating some of the earliest anthropomorphic images of the Buddha and signaling Buddhism’s westward intellectual reach. Wikipedia+1 Modern Transmission to Europe It was not until the 19th and 20th centuries that Buddhism began to establish a visible presence in Europe as a living tradition, rather than as an academic curiosity. European scholars, often influenced by their study of Indian texts and archaeological discoveries, helped introduce Buddhist ideas into Western intellectual circles. Encyclopedia Britannica https://ibhforum.org/buddhism-study-its-origins-and-global-footsteps/ By the late 1800s and early 1900s, translated Buddhist scriptures, lectures by Asian teachers, and encounters between European Orientalists and Indian culture deepened European engagement with Buddhism. Philosophers, poets, and writers began to explore Buddhist teachings on consciousness, ethics, and the nature of existence, creating fertile ground for spiritual seekers. BHARATA BHARATI 20th-Century Growth and Institutions The post-World War II era saw rapid growth of Buddhist practice in Europe. Immigrants from China, Japan, and Southeast Asia brought rich traditions that formed diasporic communities and established temples and centers. Simultaneously, European converts helped found organizations such as the European Buddhist Union, which continues to foster cooperation among Buddhist communities across the continent. Wikipedia Today, although Buddhists remain a minority in Europe, countries like Italy, Germany, Hungary, France, and the UK host vibrant Buddhist communities. These include practitioners of Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana traditions — all of which trace their lineage ultimately back to Indian origins. Wikipedia India’s Enduring Cultural Influence India’s contribution to Buddhism goes beyond its historical beginnings. The philosophical depth of early Buddhist texts — preserved in languages like Pali and Sanskrit — continues to inform Buddhist study worldwide. Indian heritage sites, from Sanchi Stupa to Bodh Gaya, serve as pilgrimage destinations for practitioners and students from Europe, nurturing a living connection between Indian soil and European Buddhist identity. Indo-Buddhist Heritage Forum+1 Furthermore, contemporary interest in practices such as mindfulness and meditation — rooted in Buddhist contemplative traditions — demonstrates how core Indian-Buddhist insights have entered mainstream European life, influencing psychology, education, and healthcare. Encyclopedia Britannica Conclusion: A Shared Spiritual Heritage Buddhism’s journey from India to Europe illustrates the universal appeal of the Buddha’s teachings. Rooted in the Indian experience of liberation, the dhamma crossed mountains, deserts, and seas, adapting to diverse cultures while maintaining its core message of compassion, wisdom, and inner freedom. Today, Europe’s engagement with Buddhism reflects not only historical transmission but a dynamic and ongoing relationship — one that highlights India’s central role as the source of a universal spiritual legacy.https://ibhforum.org/the-world-of-buddhism-vibrant-lands-hidden-faith-and-indias-influence/

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Buddhism Study Its Origins and Global Footsteps

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Buddhism is one of the worlds oldest spiritual traditions. It is based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, who showed a path of wisdom, ethical living, and mindful awareness. The goal of Buddhist study is to understand the nature of life and to free oneself from suffering. India The Auspicious Birthplace of Buddhism India is the sacred land where Buddhism began. In Bodh Gaya, Siddhartha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree, making India an auspicious and spiritually blessed place. Ancient universities like Nalanda and Vikramashila helped spread Buddhist knowledge across Asia. Even today, India remains a major center for Buddhist learning, pilgrimage, and meditation. Buddhist Study in Other Countries Sri Lanka preserved Theravada teachings for centuries and remains a strong center of monastic study.Thailand has a living Buddhist culture where many young people spend time in monasteries to learn meditation.Myanmar is known for its Vipassana meditation traditions practiced worldwide.Japan developed Zen Buddhism, which focuses on simple living and deep meditation.South Korea blends meditation and scripture study in its traditional monasteries.Nepal, the birthplace of Prince Siddhartha, continues to be an important pilgrimage site.Bhutan follows Buddhism as a way of life and values compassion in its national philosophy. Following the Buddhas Footsteps Today People around the world study Buddhism through meditation, scripture, retreats, and travel to sacred sites. The teachings continue to guide millions toward peace and understanding. At the heart of this spiritual journey stands India, the blessed land where the light of Buddhism first began.

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What Did the Buddha Actually Teach vs. Later Additions?

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A Clear Look Into the Origins and Evolution of Buddhism The question “What did the Buddha actually teach?” remains one of the most debated and most searched topics in Buddhist studies. Modern practitioners, researchers, and curious readers often want to distinguish original Buddhism from the vast layers of philosophy, culture, and spiritual innovation that developed over the last 2,500 years. But this question is not easy to answer. Early Buddhist texts themselves contain variations, oral transmission lasted centuries, and different schools added new doctrines, deities, commentaries, and rituals as Buddhism spread across Asia. This article will help you understand: What teachings are closest to what the Buddha himself taught What was added later Why contradictions exist How Buddhism evolved into its diverse modern forms For readers who want to explore Buddhism’s global evolution, culture, and future, you can also dive into:👉 https://ibhforum.org/the-world-of-buddhism-vibrant-lands-hidden-faith-and-indias-influence/ Why Understanding “Original Buddhism” Is So Difficult Even the earliest scriptures—like the Pāli Canon—show subtle contradictions.Why? Teachings were transmitted orally for almost 500 years Different monastic groups memorized different versions Councils edited and recited teachings based on their interpretations Local cultures shaped the preservation of the Dharma As a result, there is no single, fixed, universally agreed-upon version of the Buddha’s words. Unlike other religious founders, the Buddha wrote nothing down.His teachings were passed from teacher to student, and then from groups of monks to future generations. Across these centuries: Subtle details changed Emphasis shifted New explanations arose Commentaries expanded the original message Understanding these evolutions offers a clear perspective on why modern Buddhism is incredibly diverse. To see how Buddhism is evolving in today’s digital world, explore:👉 https://ibhforum.org/digital-buddhism-how-monks-nuns-influencers-are-bringing-ancient-wisdom-online/ What the Buddha Actually Taught Most scholars agree that the Buddha’s original teachings were practical, experience-based, and focused on liberation, not metaphysics or rituals. These include: These teachings form the core of what historians call early Buddhism. They emphasize clarity, awareness, ethics, and liberation from suffering. What Was Added Later? As Buddhism spread through India, where it was born and first developed, it began influencing neighboring cultures. From India, the teachings traveled to Sri Lanka, Korea, Japan, Tibet, Nepal, Southeast Asia, and eventually China. Each region absorbed Buddhism in their own cultural and philosophical framework, adding new rituals, ideas, and interpretations. A Note on China’s Role in Buddhist Evolution China learned Buddhism directly from India, translated Indian scriptures, and studied Indian masters for centuries. Over time, China developed its own schools — such as Chan (Zen), Pure Land, and Tiantai — which blended Buddhist teachings with Chinese philosophy like Taoism and Confucianism. However, in the modern era, China often presents its Buddhist traditions as if they originated independently, even though their philosophical foundations came from India and were shaped by Indian teachers, texts, and monastic culture. Did the Buddha Teach About Gods? He acknowledged gods (devas), but: He did not promote worship He did not teach they created the universe He saw them as beings bound by karma, just like humans In early Buddhism, gods are spectators, not saviors. No — chakras are not part of the early Buddhist teachings. The chakra system comes from ancient yogic and tantric traditions and entered Buddhism much later, especially through: Vajrayāna Buddhism Tibetan esoteric practices Tantric meditations Thus chakras are a later addition, not a historical Buddha teaching. Yes, but not in the Mahāyāna sense. Early Buddhism: Emptiness = “Empty of self” “Empty of ownership” “Empty of permanence” Later Mahāyāna Buddhism: Emptiness = No inherent existence All phenomena are conceptually constructed A deep philosophical doctrine developed by Nāgārjuna So emptiness expanded significantly after the Buddha’s time. Absolutely not. Tantric Buddhism began over 1,000 years after the Buddha, introducing: Mantras Mandalas Deity yoga Ritual empowerments Esoteric ceremonies These are profound practices — but they are historical developments, not original teachings. The Evolution of Buddhism: A Living Tradition Buddhism grew and changed throughout centuries, adapting to unique cultures, philosophies, and needs. Today, it continues to evolve — especially with digital technology and even artificial intelligence. Explore how Buddhism is interacting with AI and modern innovation:👉 https://ibhforum.org/buddhism-ai-can-ai-attain-enlightenmen/ 👉 https://ibhforum.org/harnessing-ai-meditation-for-the-transformation-of-human-resource/ Buddhism has never been static — it’s a living wisdom tradition. What This Means for Practitioners Today Understanding the distinction between original teachings and later developments helps you: ✓ Practice with clarity✓ Avoid confusion or misinformation✓ Choose the form of Buddhism that resonates with you✓ Respect the historical roots while appreciating modern evolution The Buddha himself encouraged inquiry, direct investigation, and personal experience — not blind belief. Conclusion: Buddhism Is Both Ancient and Ever-Evolving The historical Buddha offered a simple but profound path toward freedom from suffering. Over time, Buddhism embraced philosophy, ritual, meditation innovations, tantra, devotional practices, and even modern technology. Both sides matter: The roots show us where the Dharma beganThe branches show how Buddhism continues to grow Understanding both allows us to practice with wisdom, balance, and authenticity. Connect & Explore Further For deeper insights into Buddhism’s evolution, philosophy, and modern impact, explore more at: 🔗 The World of Buddhismhttps://ibhforum.org/the-world-of-buddhism-vibrant-lands-hidden-faith-and-indias-influence/ 🔗 Digital Buddhism Movementhttps://ibhforum.org/digital-buddhism-how-monks-nuns-influencers-are-bringing-ancient-wisdom-online/ 🔗 Buddhism & AI (Enlightenment + Technology)https://ibhforum.org/buddhism-ai-can-ai-attain-enlightenmen/ 🔗 AI-Powered Meditation & HR Transformationhttps://ibhforum.org/harnessing-ai-meditation-for-the-transformation-of-human-resource/ 🔗 Follow Us on Social Media Twitter (X) – Stay updated with Buddhist insights and global newshttps://x.com/indobuddhisthf LinkedIn – Namita Kapoorhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/namita-kapoor-a83270280/

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China vs India in Buddhism

How China and India Are Spreading Buddhism — and Why India’s Path Rings Truer

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Buddhism, born over 2,500 years ago in the Indian subcontinent, has re-emerged in the twenty-first century as a powerful tool of diplomacy. Both China and India are harnessing Buddhism’s soft power potential to build cultural bridges and influence regional geopolitics. Yet the two nations’ methods and motivations could not be more different.

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Beijing’s Diplomatic Appropriation of Theravada Buddhism

Beijing’s Diplomatic Appropriation of Theravada Buddhism

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Under Xi Jinping, the CCP is weaponizing Theravada Buddhism for diplomacy and the Belt and Road Initiative. While temples in Yunnan face shortages and neglect, Beijing projects Buddhist imagery abroad to secure influence in Southeast Asia, from relic diplomacy in Myanmar to blocking the Dalai Lama in Sri Lanka. This strategy exposes the Party’s instrumental use of religion at the expense of authentic Buddhist practice.

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What Does Tibetan Buddhism Believe?

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Tibetan Buddhism, also known as Vajrayana Buddhism, is a unique and intricate form of Buddhism that combines elements of Mahayana Buddhism with various tantric and shamanistic practices native to the Himalayan region. It is widely practiced in Tibet, Bhutan, Nepal, India, Mongolia, and parts of Russia. Tibetan Buddhism is renowned for its rich rituals, profound philosophical texts, and an emphasis on the path to enlightenment through both wisdom and compassion. Core Beliefs and Practices 1. The Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold PathLike all Buddhist traditions, Tibetan Buddhism is rooted in the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. These foundational teachings outline the nature of suffering, its causes, the possibility of cessation, and the path leading to the cessation of suffering. 2. The Bodhisattva IdealTibetan Buddhism places a strong emphasis on the bodhisattva path, wherein practitioners aspire to achieve enlightenment not just for themselves but for the benefit of all sentient beings. This involves cultivating qualities such as compassion (karuna) and loving-kindness (metta). Tantric Practices One of the defining features of Tibetan Buddhism is its extensive use of tantra, which includes advanced meditation techniques, rituals, and esoteric practices. Tantric practices aim to transform ordinary experiences into opportunities for spiritual growth. Key elements include: The Role of Lamas and Tulkus Lamas: Tibetan Buddhism places great importance on spiritual teachers known as lamas. They provide guidance, perform rituals, and transmit teachings. The most renowned lama is the Dalai Lama, considered the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism. Tulkus: Another unique aspect of Tibetan Buddhism is the belief in tulkus, or reincarnated lamas. High-ranking lamas, upon their death, are believed to reincarnate and are sought out through a meticulous process. The Dalai Lama and the Panchen Lama are among the most famous tulkus. Rituals and Festivals Tibetan Buddhism is rich in cultural and religious festivals that reflect its spiritual beliefs and practices. These festivals often involve elaborate rituals, prayers, dances, and communal activities that mark significant events in the Buddhist calendar. Here are some key Tibetan Buddhist festivals: Losar (Tibetan New Year) Losar is the most significant festival in Tibetan Buddhism, celebrating the Tibetan New Year. It usually falls in February or March and lasts for 15 days, with the first three days being the most important. The festival involves various customs such as cleaning homes, preparing special foods, performing rituals to drive away evil spirits, and visiting monasteries to offer prayers and receive blessings. 2. Monlam (The Great Prayer Festival) Monlam Chenmo is one of the grandest festivals, established by Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. Held in the first month of the Tibetan calendar, Monlam includes extensive prayer sessions, teachings, and debates by monks, aiming for world peace and spiritual prosperity. The festival culminates with rituals and public displays of intricate butter sculptures called torma. 3. Saga Dawa Saga Dawa is the celebration of the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana (passing away). It occurs on the full moon day of the fourth lunar month. Buddhists engage in various meritorious activities, such as fasting, reciting sutras, making offerings, and releasing animals. Pilgrims visit sacred sites, including Mount Kailash, to perform circumambulations and offer prayers. 4. Chotrul Duchen (Festival of Butter Lamps) Chotrul Duchen, also known as the Festival of Butter Lamps, takes place on the 15th day of the first month of the Tibetan calendar. It commemorates the Buddha’s performance of miracles to increase the faith of his disciples. Monasteries and homes are illuminated with thousands of butter lamps, symbolizing the light of wisdom dispelling the darkness of ignorance. 5. Lhabab Duchen Lhabab Duchen celebrates the Buddha’s descent from the Tushita heaven back to Earth, after teaching his mother and other celestial beings. This festival is observed on the 22nd day of the ninth lunar month. It involves making offerings, lighting lamps, and performing various rituals to honor the Buddha’s return and spread of his teachings. 6. Ganden Ngamchoe Ganden Ngamchoe marks the death anniversary of Je Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug tradition. Celebrated on the 25th day of the 10th lunar month, the festival includes lamp offerings, prayers, and the recitation of Tsongkhapa’s works. Monks and laypeople gather to honor his contributions to Tibetan Buddhism. 7. Dzamling Chisang (Universal Prayer Day) Dzamling Chisang is a festival of universal prayer and offerings, held on the 15th day of the fifth lunar month. It commemorates the great saint Guru Rinpoche’s subjugation of negative forces and establishment of Buddhism in Tibet. Pilgrims visit sacred sites, make offerings, and perform rituals to invoke the blessings of Guru Rinpoche. 8. Shoton Festival (Yogurt Festival) Shoton Festival originally began as a monastic retreat during which monks consumed only yogurt. Today, it is a major cultural event held in Lhasa, involving Tibetan opera performances, music, and dance. The festival starts on the 30th day of the sixth lunar month with the unfurling of a giant thangka (religious painting) at Drepung Monastery, followed by festivities at Norbulingka Palace. 9. Thangka Unveiling Ceremony Several festivals feature the unveiling of giant thangkas (religious paintings), which are displayed to convey blessings and teachings. Notable ceremonies include those during the Monlam Great Prayer Festival and the Shoton Festival. These events draw large crowds of pilgrims and tourists who come to view the thangkas and participate in the associated rituals. 10. Palden Lhamo Festival Palden Lhamo Festival is dedicated to Palden Lhamo, a fierce female protector deity of Tibetan Buddhism. Celebrated on the 15th day of the ninth lunar month, the festival includes rituals and prayers to invoke her protection and blessings. Monasteries hold special ceremonies, and devotees offer prayers and perform rituals to honor her. Tibetan Buddhist festivals are vibrant expressions of spiritual devotion, community solidarity, and cultural heritage. They provide opportunities for practitioners to accumulate merit, deepen their practice, and celebrate the teachings of Buddhism. These festivals, marked by elaborate rituals, prayers, and communal activities, play a crucial role in preserving and promoting the rich traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. Essential Books to Understand Tibetan Buddhism These…

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