‘Understanding of traditions is a must to study Buddhist texts’

Sakaal Times, December 28, 2009

PUNE, India -- The study of Buddhist texts is incomplete without proper understanding of the traditions, said Prof Geshe N Samten, vice chancellor, Central University of Tibetan Studies, Sarnath, at a recent international seminar on Buddhist texts and traditions at the University of Pune (UoP) as part of its golden jubilee year celebrations.

Over 29 participants, including foreign experts, participated in the seminar. Director, Board of Colleges and University Development Pandit Vidyasagar inaugurated the seminar.

Prof Shrikant Bahulkar, convener of the seminar, underlined the necessity to understand interpretations and importance attached to various Buddhist texts in various countries.

Experts presented 29 research papers related to Buddhist meditation, Tibetan Buddhism, Theravada Buddhism, Mahayana Buddhism as well as on Tantrism, lexicography, art and architecture in Buddhist traditions.

Ravindra Panth, vice chancellor of Nava Nalanda Maha Vihara, Nalanda University stressed on the dire need to preserve and publish Buddhist manuscripts and translate them in regional languages.

Eminent scholar of Buddhism Prof M G Dhadphale was honoured with Manjushree Award by Indian Society of Buddhist Studies. A book on Ashokan edicts written by Prof Meena Talim was released.
TOP