Chowna Mein Attends Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony of International Meditation Center and Monastery at Chatrapati Sambhaji Nagar
Chatrapati Sambhaji Nagar , Maharashtra : The foundation stone for an International Meditation Center and Monastery was laid today at Chatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (Aurangabad) in Maharashtra, marking an important step toward strengthening India’s position as a global hub for Buddhist learning, spiritual practice, and cultural exchange.
Arunachal Pradesh’s Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, who attended the ceremony, described the initiative as a significant milestone for the global Buddhist community. He highlighted the unique role of Arunachal Pradesh as a region where diverse Buddhist traditions, including Mahāyāna and Theravāda, coexist in harmony alongside rich indigenous belief systems.
He noted that such institutions not only promote spiritual growth but also strengthen cultural linkages across regions. Emphasizing inter-state collaboration, he welcomed the growing focus on developing a comprehensive Buddhist tourism circuit across India, which is expected to connect historically and spiritually significant regions, including states in the Northeast such as Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
Referring to Maharashtra’s rich Buddhist legacy, he acknowledged the importance of heritage sites like the Ajanta Caves and Ellora Caves, which continue to draw scholars, pilgrims, and visitors from around the world.
He further underscored the importance of preserving indigenous traditions and cultural practices, noting that Arunachal Pradesh has consistently taken steps to support both Buddhist and native cultural heritage through community participation and government initiatives.
The Deputy Chief Minister also expressed appreciation for the efforts of the organizers and the Government of Maharashtra in advancing projects that promote spiritual and cultural values and assured continued support. He conveyed confidence that the Meditation Center would emerge as a significant destination for peace, learning, and global dialogue.
The event concluded with a reaffirmation of collective commitment to fostering harmony, cultural preservation, and spiritual engagement.
Among others, the Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony was also attended by Minister of Home Affairs, Royal Govt of Bhutan, Lyonpo Tshering, Minister of State for Social Justice & Empowerment, Govt of India, Ramdas Athawale, Minister of Social Justice, Govt of Maharashtra, Sanjay Shirsat, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha), Shrikant Shinde, Member of Parliament, Sri Lanka, Uditha Lokubandara and Venerable Monks.