The Synergia Foundation, in partnership with Nalanda University, successfully hosted the inaugural Bodh Gaya-Nalanda Initiative on Shared Values, Shared Culture, and Futures from September 12th to 14th, 2024. This landmark event was held in India's two highly symbolic locations—Bodh Gaya, where Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment, and Nalanda University, the ancient global centre of learning and spiritual wisdom.
The event drew distinguished participants worldwide, including thought leaders, diplomats, scholars, and policymakers. It was held with the aim of fostering dialogue on the interconnectedness of cultures, values, and futures in a rapidly evolving world.
Interestingly the Sri Lankan representative Colonel Nalin Herath who was among the elite panel of speakers invited by the Synergia Foundation, delivered a speech on challenges faced by Bimstec. During his speech, he shed light on its impacts and how aspects of shared values and culture could be harnessed to create a holistic approach to shape future generations and ways of overcoming pressing challenges. Col. Herath who is the Director Media and Spokesman of the Ministry of Defence and also the Overlooking Director General of the Institute of National Security Studies drew the attention of the audience with his captivating and insightful presentation.
While elaborating on the topic Col. Herath expressed optimism about the organization but said that new strategies should be formulated for future operations and to deal with emerging challenges. Radical changes and effective approaches should be adopted to attain desired results. The need of the hour is to pick up speed by the member countries or even restart and start afresh with more vigor and newer approaches. His enlightening speech was well taken by the eminent audience present.
The discussions highlighted the importance of mutual understanding and cooperation across borders to address humanity's critical challenges, from climate change to global inequality. By drawing on Buddhism's philosophical traditions and Nalanda's rich heritage, the forum provided an intellectual and spiritual framework for promoting peace and shared prosperity.
The Bodh Gaya-Nalanda Initiative brought together a distinguished panel of experts from diverse fields who shared their profound insights and wisdom throughout the event. Eminent scholars in philosophy, history, and international relations provided a deep understanding of the cultural and spiritual legacies that bind civilisations. Global leaders and diplomats discussed the pressing geopolitical challenges of today and the potential of shared values to promote peace and cooperation. Noted economists and sustainability experts contributed their perspectives on the future of global development, highlighting the role of ethical leadership and inclusive growth. Thought leaders from religious and spiritual traditions, including prominent Buddhist scholars, emphasised the need for compassion, mindfulness, and moral responsibility in shaping a better world. Collectively, these experts illuminated pathways for leveraging ancient wisdom to address modern challenges, inspiring a holistic vision of a shared and sustainable future.
Through its innovative format, blending ancient wisdom with contemporary challenges, the Bodh Gaya-Nalanda Initiative served as a platform for forward-looking dialogue. It is a testament to the enduring relevance of shared cultural and spiritual values in shaping a more harmonious and interconnected global future. The success of this event marks a significant step toward realising a shared global vision.
