The third Ganga-Mekhong Holy Buddha Relics Dhammayatra, which enshrined the Buddha's relics and the Arahant relics of Sariputta and Moggallana in Thailand temporarily, highlighted the profound faith of the Thai people and neighboring countries. This historic event also symbolized the strong and enduring relationship between the Kingdom of Thailand and the Republic of India.
Toward the end of 2024, the Bodhigaya Vijjalaya 980 Institute, in collaboration with key partner organizations in Thailand and India, will organize the The 4th Dhammayatra to Buddha Bhoomi: Mekong- Ganga Declaration on the Century of Dhamma. This initiative will take place along the route of Patna-Bodhgaya-New Delhi-Gujarat from December 3–10, 2024. Its objectives are to deepen the cultural and spiritual ties between the civilizations of the Mekong and Ganga rivers, promote the global dissemination of Buddhist teachings, foster environmental awareness, and avoid conflicts. A highlight of the event will be the Declaration of the Century of Dhamma, rooted in the vision of the "Asian Century", articulated by India's Prime Minister in 2015.
A Historic Symbol: The Time Capsule, as a key element of the Fourth Dhammayatra Project, a Time Capsule containing the Declaration of Collaboration between Thailand and India will be buried under the Bodhi Tree in Bodhgaya, India, on December 5, 2024. This momentous act, led by Dr. Supachai Verapuchong, Secretary-General of the Bodhigaya Vijjalaya 980 Institute, together with partner organizations and Buddhist scholars from the Mekong and Ganga regions, will serve as a historical marker of cooperation and shared commitment to the "Century of Dhamma."
The Time Capsule, symbolizing the Declaration of the Century of Dhamma, will preserve this record of historical collaboration beneath the sacred grounds of Bodhgaya, the site of the Buddha's enlightenment. It will serve as a legacy for future generations to learn about the significant events of the 21st century and affirm the enduring importance of Buddhist principles for humanity.
The Century of Dhamma: A Vision Beyond Time, the Century of Dhamma is not merely a temporal milestone; it reflects a shared commitment to adopting Buddhist principles as a guide for life. It envisions a century where humanity transcends religious, cultural, and societal differences to build a new era of peace, understanding, and mutual respect. With Dhamma at its core, this vision aspires to achieve victory through peace and compassion rather than violence.
Addressing Urgent Global Issues, the Century of Dhamma arises from the pressing need to resolve the conflicts and crises facing humanity today, including armed conflicts, political instability, social division, environmental destruction, and economic inequality. These challenges threaten humanity's survival. By uniting around universal Buddhist principles of peace, respect, and well-being, the Century of Dhamma seeks to guide humanity toward harmony and collective prosperity.
Commemorative Events, the project will include offerings under the sacred Bodhi Tree and at the Mahabodhi Stupa in Bodhgaya. These acts will commemorate the 97th birthday anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great (Rama IX) and honor His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X) on the auspicious occasion of his 72nd birthday on July 28, 2024.
Notably, the Time Capsule will be buried during the Dhammayatra on the 234th year of the Buddhist Era (B.E. 234). This was the year when Emperor Ashoka dispatched nine missionary delegations to propagate Buddhism. Interestingly, the number 234 adds up to 9, signifying the legacy of King Rama IX, the Supreme Patron of Buddhism in Thailand.
