At Republic Day Parade: A display of strength and spiritual kindness

To highlight the relevance of the timeless Buddhist wisdom of social harmony, peace, compassion and mutual coexistence, a large group of international Monks and Nuns representing 40 countries attending the Global Buddhist Summit will be the honoured guests at this year’s Republic Day Parade.

Theme:
India showcased both military might and spiritual compassion.

Guests of Honour:
A large group of international monks and nuns from 40 countries, attending the Global Buddhist Summit, were invited to the parade.

Message:
- Highlighted Buddhist wisdom of peace, compassion, harmony, and coexistence.
- India presented itself as the land of Buddha Dhamma, offering a message of peaceful resolution to conflicts, global inequalities, and ecological crises.

Statements:
- Ven Shartse Khensur Rinpoche Jangchup Choeden (IBC Secretary General): “India will be displaying its might, but it is also the land of Buddha Dhamma, spreading the message of peace, love, and kindness.”

- Shri Abhijit Halder (IBC Director General): Emphasized how Buddhist principles influenced the Indian Constitution, especially ideals of equality, compassion, and non-violence.

- Dr Damenda Porage (IBC Deputy Secretary General, Sri Lanka): Called India “the light to the world: displaying both strength and spiritual kindness.”

Parade Display:
- On one side: Armed Forces, Naval and Air power, armoured equipment.
- On the other: Monks and Nuns, symbolizing peace and compassion.

Global Buddhist Summit:
- Held 24–25 January 2026, with 800 delegates from 40 countries.
- Theme: “Collective Wisdom, United Voice, and Mutual Coexistence.”

This year’s parade was designed as a dual message: India’s defense strength alongside its spiritual heritage, reinforcing the idea that true resolution lies in compassion and coexistence.