Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the celebrations of Abhidhamma Divas and recognition of Pali as a classical language in New Delhi today. The International Buddhist Confederation in association with the Culture Ministry is observing the International Abhidhamma Divas. The Prime Minister will share his insights on the significance of Abhidhamma Divas, the importance of the Pali language and the government’s ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the rich heritage of Buddha Dhamma. A special address will be delivered by Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju will also be present. 

The recent recognition of Pali as a classical language, along with four other languages, enhances the significance of this year’s Abhidhamma Divas celebrations as Buddha’s teachings on Abhidhamma are originally available in Pali language. Abhidhamma Divas commemorates the descent of Lord Buddha from the celestial realm of the thirty-three divine beings to Sankassiya, known today as Sankisa Basantapur in the Farrukhabad district of Uttar Pradesh. The significance of this location is underscored by the presence of the Asokan Elephant Pillar, an enduring marker of this historic event.