India has a rich history of deep-rooted cultural and religious connections with Tibet that extend back centuries. The Indo-Tibetan plateau has ancient ties through Buddhism, particularly evident in the sacred sites like Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake revered by both Hindus and Tibetan Buddhists. The recent geopolitical dynamics have brought to light the significance of reviving these historical linkages to assert India’s cultural influence in the region.
Four years ago on this day, a brave battalion of Indian soldiers led by Colonel B Santosh Babu repelled a PLA attack near Galwan in East Ladakh, marking a pivotal moment in India-China tensions. While recent incidents like Chinese renaming of geographical entities in Arunachal Pradesh have sparked concerns, India’s Ministry of External Affairs has refrained from engaging in similar exercises. Instead, there have been speculations about potential renaming of places in Tibet as a response, underscoring the need to emphasize India’s historical bonds through Buddhism.
The International Buddhist Confederation recently organized the Global Buddhist Summit, highlighting India’s efforts to revive Buddhist heritage and pilgrimage routes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s inauguration of the summit underlined India’s central role in the Buddhist world, positioning it as a protector of Buddha Dhamma. This initiative not only showcased India’s outreach to Buddhist monks and scholars but also aimed at countering China’s influence in the region.
Furthermore, historical figures like Ashoka and Pandit Nehru have contributed significantly to the propagation of Buddhism, with Nehru drawing inspiration from Buddhist principles in formulating key policies. However, it is under the current leadership of Prime Minister Modi that Buddhism has gained unprecedented prominence in India’s public discourse. Modi’s strategic focus on Buddhism, particularly in engaging with the global Buddhist community, signals a shift towards leveraging India’s soft power through cultural diplomacy.
India’s engagement with Tibetan Buddhism has the potential to not only strengthen its ties with the global Buddhist community but also serve as a diplomatic tool against China. The historic roots of Buddhism in India, intertwined with Nalanda traditions, can be harnessed to project India as the center of the Buddhist world. By fostering educational initiatives, promoting Tibetan language studies, and establishing dedicated Buddhist libraries, India can solidify its position as a leader in the realm of Buddhist diplomacy.
In contrast, China’s attempts to co-opt Tibetan Buddhism for the Belt and Road Initiative face challenges, given India’s historical connections with the faith and the growing global appeal of figures like the Dalai Lama. India’s proactive measures to promote its Buddhist heritage not only bolster its soft power but also provide a compelling narrative in the realm of cultural diplomacy. By revitalizing its ancient Buddhist links with Tibet, India can assert its cultural influence in the region and strengthen diplomatic ties with the global Buddhist community.
