SAMVAD

Asian Century of Dharma-Dhamma

SMAVAD IV Playlist

5 Videos

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The Sanskrit word SAMVAD (pronounced Sam-vad) is derived from "Sam", meaning together, in harmony, or with goodwill, and "Vada", meaning speech or discourse. Thus, Samvad (संवाद) translates to "Dialogue" in English. However, Samvad conveys a deeper meaning beyond a simple conversation. It refers to a form of discussion that is free from conflict - not a debate or an argument seeking resolution through opposition but rather a natural and fluid conversation that leads to deeper understanding and mutual agreement. Therefore, Samvad stands in contrast to Vivad (Debate), which implies a discussion that involves conflict, contradiction, or an attempt to prove one’s point over the other.

SAMVAD was initiated through discussions between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, focusing on applying the philosophical principles of Hinduism and Buddhism to address critical issues of the modern world, such as conflicts and environmental problems. Its primary objective is to:

1. "Avoiding Conflict Through the Philosophical Approach of Peace"

2. "Raising Awareness of Environmental Responsibility"

3. Transform the societal mindset from avoiding conversations to openly listening and engaging with understanding.

The first Samvad conference has been alternately hosted by India and Japan. VIF India hosted the event in New Delhi/Bodh Gaya in 2015, in Yangon, Myanmar, in 2017, and in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, in 2019. Meanwhile, the Japanese side organized the event three times in Tokyo in 2016, 2018, and virtually in 2020. The onset of the pandemic disrupted physical hosting of the conference. Several institutions have collaborated with VIF in hosting previous Samvad conferences, including the Tokyo Foundation, the Japan Foundation, the Sitagu International Buddhist Academy (SIBA), the Myanmar Institute of Strategic and International Studies (MISIS), the Gandantegchinlen Monastery and the Mongolian Buddhist Center, as well as the Institute for Strategic Studies of the National Security Council. Distinguished leaders such as the Prime Ministers of India, Japan, and Mongolia, the Vice President of Myanmar, and former Presidents of Sri Lanka and Indonesia have delivered addresses at past Samvad conferences.

The 4th SAMVAD Conference, under the theme “The Asian Century of Dhamma-Dharma”, is being held for the first time in Thailand. This event highlights the significant role of the Asian region as a leader in the new global era. It aims to integrate ancient teachings and philosophies of Dhamma-Dharma as guiding principles in building a world founded on humanitarianism, compassion, and sustainability for the future. The conference also emphasizes its apolitical nature.

Host

– Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF), India

Co-Host in Thailand

- Bodhigaya Vijjalaya 980 Institute

- Bharat Studies Centre, Mahachulalongkornrajyavidyalaya University (MCU)

In association with:

– International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), New Delhi, India

– Japan Foundation, Japan (TBC)

Funded by

- Verapuchong Foundation, Thailand