Bhopal to host global conclave on Hinduism and Buddhism

National and international scholars will confabulate on the core concepts of the two faiths at the 'Dharma-Dhamma' conference to be held here from September 21-23.

The event is being organised jointly by the state government and the Centre for Study of Religion and Society (CSRS).

On the occasion, a foundation stone for the Sanchi University for Buddhist Studies will be laid at world-famous Sanchi town, about 45 km away from Bhopal, on September 21, Madhya Pradesh Culture Minister, Laxmikant Sharma told reporters here today.

Thailand's Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn will be the Chief Guest for the inaugural function, he said.

"The central theme of the conference is Dharma-Dhamma which has been a pivotal and pervasive concept and an important tenet of Indian culture, commonly shared by all Indic religious traditions," Dr Vinay Sahastrabuddhe of CSRS said on the occasion.

"The principal objective behind this conference is to facilitate cross pollination of ideas and thoughts between the two ancient thought traditions," he said.

Academic scholars and philosophers from over 22 countries including U K, France, Netherlands, Vietnam, China, Israel, Egypt, Indonesia and Japan, are expected to attend the congregation.