Jajpur, Jan 12: The second Prayer Ceremony for Guru Padmasambhava and the International Buddhist Conference were inaugurated today at the historic Udayagiri Buddhist site in Jajpur district. The six-day event, running from January 11–16, 2026, has attracted over 1,700 Buddhist monks, scholars, and devotees from across India and several international locations.
The conference, organised by the Light of Buddha Foundation, Odisha Tourism Department, Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture, and the Jajpur district administration, is chaired by Buddhist Guru Wangmo Dikse.
The inauguration began with a grand peace procession from the Udayagiri Tourist Reception Centre to the prayer site, followed by speeches from key dignitaries. Jajpur MP Rabindra Narayan Behera, the chief guest, emphasised that India’s future lies not in conflict, but in following the path shown by Lord Buddha.
He also highlighted Udayagiri’s historical importance as part of the ancient Pushpagiri University, a once-thriving centre of Buddhist learning that attracted scholars from across the world. Behera also underscored the pivotal role of Guru Padmasambhava in spreading Buddhist philosophy across India, Tibet, China, and South Asia.
Jajpur District Collector Ambar Kumar Kar assured full administrative support for the participants, stressing the significance of the event in promoting Jajpur’s rich Buddhist heritage and its tourism potential. Barchana MLA Amar Kumar Nayak commended the collaboration between the Light of Buddha Foundation and the Odisha government, describing the conference as a significant effort to revive the region’s ancient legacy.
Over the next six days, distinguished researchers, Buddhist teachers, and historians will participate in discussions on Buddhist philosophy, heritage, and its contemporary relevance. Attendees will also visit the famous Diamond Triangle of Ratnagiri, Lalitgiri, and Udayagiri-three interconnected ancient Buddhist sites known for their monasteries, stupas, and relics.
The conference is expected to strengthen global Buddhist ties and showcase Odisha’s pivotal role in Buddhist history.
