The 20th International Tipitaka Chanting Ceremony (ITCC) commenced today in Bodhgaya with great reverence and distinguished global participation. The sacred event began at 8:00 AM with a grand Buddhist procession that started from the Royal Thai Buddhagaya Temple and concluded at the Kalachakra Ground. Representatives, laypersons, nuns, and monks from 17 countries joined the procession, symbolizing unity, harmony, and shared devotion to the teachings of the Buddha. India proudly served as the host country for this year’s ceremony.
This year’s ITCC drew an impressive gathering of approximately 20,000 visitors, including over, 10,000 Bhikkhus & Bhikkhunis and 9,000 laypersons and disciples, who assembled to recite, listen, and pay homage to the sacred Pali Canon.
The Opening Ceremony, held beneath the sanctified presence of the Holy Bodhi Tree, began with opening blessings and welcome recitations delivered by prominent monks representing various participating nations. Their words set a deeply spiritual tone for the days ahead, emphasizing peace, compassion, and the timeless relevance of the Dhamma.
The ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries: Hon’ble Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister for Culture & Tourism, and Shri Chowna Mein, Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, also honored the occasion with his presence. On arrival of Hon’ble Ministers, they were welcomed by Dr. Mahashweta Maharathi, Secretary, BTMC, Dr. Arvind Kumar Singh, Shri Kiran Lama, Member BTMC, Ven. Bhikkhu Deenanand, Ven. Bhikkhu Dr. Manoj, BTMC Monks and other officials.
A special highlight of the event was the reading of the message from the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, delivered by Hon’ble Gajendra Singh Shekhawat beneath the Holy Bodhi Tree, adding solemnity and inspiration to the gathering.
The Bodhgaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC) extends heartfelt gratitude to all international delegations, monks, nuns, lay devotees, and visitors for their participation, making the 20th International Tipitaka Chanting Ceremony a memorable and spiritually uplifting global celebration of the Buddha’s teachings.