Mein lays foundation for landmark Buddhist projects in Namsai, aims to make Arunachal a global spiritual hub

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 18, 2025

In a significant step toward positioning Arunachal Pradesh as a global centre for Theravāda Buddhism and spiritual tourism, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein attended the foundation stone laying ceremony for three landmark Buddhist projects at the Mahabodhi Centre in Nongtaw, Namsai.

The ceremony marked the beginning of an ambitious spiritual and cultural revival, with the launch of a 108-ft Phra Maha Sutong-Pe (Wish-Fulfilling Buddha Statue), to be constructed under the blessings of Most Venerable Kassapa Mahathera, President of the Mahabodhi Society, Bengaluru, the Vajirasana Buddha Vihara—a massive Diamond Throne Buddha Temple capable of accommodating 1,000 devotees—led by Most Venerable Aggadhamma Mahathera, Chief Abbot of the Pariyatti Sasana Buddha Vihara, Namsai; and the Mahabodhi Sanghāvāsa, a residential facility for 100 monks, initiated by Most Venerable Dhammakitti Mahathera, President of the Arunachal Pradesh Bhikkhu Sangha.

These projects are part of a broader vision first imagined by the late Most Venerable Acharya Buddharakkhita, founder of the Mahabodhi Society, who dreamed of establishing eight Dhamma centres across Arunachal Pradesh. That vision is now being brought to life by a new generation of monastic leaders and public servants.

Speaking at the event, Deputy CM Chowna Mein described the projects as not just physical structures, but symbols of spiritual revival and identity. “These projects are milestones in our mission to establish Namsai as a beacon of Dhamma—of light, learning, and peace,” he said.

He emphasized the state government’s commitment to developing a Buddhist Circuit across Arunachal, linking sacred sites in Namsai, Mechuka, Tuting, Itanagar, West Kameng, and Tawang. Mein also underlined the role of institutions like Mahabodhi Lord Buddha College and the Mahabodhi Skill Development Centre, which aim to empower local youth through education and vocational training.

Reflecting on the success of the Maha Sangken Festival, Mein reiterated the importance of preserving Arunachal’s unique spiritual and cultural traditions. By integrating these heritage sites into tourism circuits, he said, the state can attract global pilgrims while strengthening community bonds across religious and ethnic lines.

“These projects will not only elevate Namsai’s spiritual profile but also create opportunities for education, employment, and international cultural exchange,” Mein added.

The ceremony was graced by several revered monastic figures including Ven. Vimalatissa Bhikkhu, Chief Abbot of Kongmu Kham. Prominent MLAs present included Chau Zingnu Namchoom, Jikke Tako, Phurpa Tsering, Tseten Chombay, Rotom Tebin, Tenzin Nyima Glow, Hayeng Mangfi, Topin Ete, and Pesi Jilen.

Together, they reaffirmed their support for transforming Arunachal into a sanctuary for Buddhist learning and global spiritual engagement—anchored in peace, inclusivity, and the timeless wisdom of the Dhamma.