Dr Supachai Verapuchong (R), Secretary-General of the Bodhgaya Vijjalaya 980 Institute, paying a courtesy call to Bhupendra Patel, Chief Minister of Gujarat, during his trip to India. Bodhgaya Vijjalaya 980 Institute

The Declaration on Dhamma Century, led by Dr Supachai Verapuchong, Secretary-General of the Bodhgaya Vijjalaya 980 Institute, embodies a vision for global peace and unity through the teachings of Buddhism, emphasising the core principles of practice, liberation, and peaceful coexistence. This initiative, which seeks to unite people across all religions and cultures, is seen as a response to the ongoing global conflicts, including political crises, economic inequality, and social divisions.

The Declaration aligns with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of an “Asian Century,” promoting the idea that peace and harmony can be achieved through the wisdom of Lord Buddha. The concept of the “Dhamma Century” also honours the legacy of Emperor Ashoka the Great, who, after witnessing the devastation of war, embraced Dhamma as a guiding principle for peace. His transformation reflected the essence of “victory over oneself” and the creation of harmony through Dhamma.

The Declaration’s core message calls for the application of the “Dhamma Strategy,” which focuses on three essential pillars: meditation practice, cultivating mindfulness and self-awareness; development of wisdom, reflecting on and understanding the Dhamma teachings; and following the Noble Eightfold Path, which emphasises morality, concentration, and wisdom as a means to enlightenment. The ultimate aim is to achieve “Right View” (Samma Ditthi)—understanding suffering, its causes, and the path to its cessation.

The Declaration was not only supported by global Buddhist leaders and institutions but also welcomed by a coalition of thinkers, including Phra Brahma Wajirayan, Phra Methiworayan, Abhai Chantanchulaka, and Bhikkhu Upatissa Thero, among others. The event marked a significant moment in the ongoing efforts to promote the Buddha’s teachings as a means to create a more harmonious and compassionate world.

A unique highlight of the Declaration on Dhamma Century was the burial of a time capsule, set to be opened 234 years from now. This capsule contains the declaration message and a letter from Dr Verapuchong to the people of the future, marking the origins of the Bodhgaya Vijjalaya 980 Institute, which was established to protect and promote Buddhism worldwide. The number “234” holds special significance, symbolising the year 234 BCE when Emperor Ashoka dispatched Buddhist emissaries to spread the teachings of the Buddha. The capsule will be buried in three sacred locations in India and Suvarnabhumi: Bodh Gaya, Gujarat, and Wat Mahathat Yuwaratrangsarit in Thailand.

The 4th Dhammayatra, which took place from December 2 to 10, 2024, followed in the footsteps of Emperor Ashoka’s mission to spread Buddhism across Asia. The journey, dubbed the Mekong Ganga Dhammayatra, linked the Ganges River with the Mekong River and was celebrated as a monumental milestone in the realisation of the “Dhamma Century”. The journey’s starting point in Patna, Bihar, where Ashoka once ruled, was marked by the presence of Bihar’s Governor Rajendra Arlekar, who welcomed the Dhammayatra delegation.

The 4th Dhammayatra’s success builds upon the accomplishments of the 3rd Dhammayatra, which focused on the enshrinement of the Buddha’s relics in Thailand. This event brought together Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike, highlighting the shared reverence for the Buddha’s teachings and their power to unite diverse cultures and faiths. Jangchup Choeden, Secretary-General of the International Buddhist Confederation, also played a crucial role in these efforts, symbolising the international support for this mission of peace.

As part of the Dhammayatra journey, the delegation visited Nalanda University in Bihar, one of the oldest universities in the world and a historical centre for Buddhist learning. The visit underscored the continuing importance of Nalanda, both in its ancient form as a Buddhist monastic institution and in its modern incarnation. Nalanda’s legacy, especially its role in transmitting Buddhist teachings to China through scholars like Xuanzang, highlights the global impact of Buddhism and its role as a bridge between civilisations.


About BodhGaya Vijjalaya 980 Institute

BodhGaya Vijjalaya 980 Institute is a charitable organization dedicated to the education, promotion, and protection of Buddhism. Established in 2007 to commemorate the 80th birthday anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej (King Rama IX) of Thailand, the institute's name reflects its mission: "Bodhi" signifies the wisdom of enlightenment, "Gaya" refers to the sacred site of the Bodhi Tree where the Buddha attained enlightenment, "Vijjalaya" means educational institute, and "980" honors King Rama IX's 80th birthday.

The institute has initiated various projects to support and disseminate Buddhist teachings. Notably, it has organized the 5-Nations Dhammayatra programs, bringing together Buddhist communities from Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam to promote peace and unity through shared religious practices. The first Dhammayatra took place in 2017, followed by subsequent events in 2019 and 2024.

In December 2024, the institute organized the Fourth Mekong-Ganga Dhammayatra, a significant event aimed at elevating Dhamma principles and fostering cultural and educational exchanges between Southeast Asian nations and India. This event was part of the institute's ongoing efforts to promote Buddhism and strengthen international Buddhist communities.

Additionally, the institute has been involved in academic and cultural collaborations, such as signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) to further educational and cultural exchanges.

Through these initiatives, BodhGaya Vijjalaya 980 Institute continues to play a pivotal role in promoting Buddhist education and fostering international cooperation among Buddhist communities.