Taxila (TDI): A vibrant celebration of Vesak brought together diplomats, monks, and cultural leaders in Pakistan’s heart of Buddhist heritage – Taxila, on Friday.
Organized as a joint effort involving diplomatic missions of Nepal, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Myanmar, the event marked the sacred occasion, also known as Buddha Jayanti, which commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautama Buddha.
Monks from Thailand and Nepal joined local participants, adding spiritual depth and international significance to the gathering.
Other notable attendees were the Ambassador of Thailand to Pakistan – Rongvudhi Virabutr, Ambassador of Nepal to Pakistan – Rita Dhital, Ambassador of Vietnam to Pakistan – Pham Anh Tuan, Ambassador of Myanmar to Pakistan – Wunna Han, and High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Pakistan – Rear Admiral (Rtd) Fred Senevirathne.
Pakistan’s Heritage Minister, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, attended as the chief guest, underscoring the government’s commitment to preserving ancient sites and promoting interfaith harmony.
The Minority Affairs Minister, Ramesh Singh Arora, was the guest of honor at the gathering. His presence symbolized inclusivity and the importance of safeguarding minority religious traditions in the country.
Ambassador of Nepal in Pakistan, Rita Dhital, welcomed attendees and highlighted the shared Buddhist heritage that connects the region.
A documentary presentation on Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was also screened, showcasing its sacred marker stone, monasteries, and long-term development plan.
Speakers throughout the event stressed the historical significance of Taxila, once a major center of Buddhist learning and culture, linking South Asia with Central and East Asia.
Happy to organize program in Taxila on Buddha Jayanti alongside Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam & Myanmar missions, highlighting shared Buddhist heritage. Ambassador Rita Dhital welcomed participants, followed by a video on Lumbini featuring marker stone, monasteries & master plan. pic.twitter.com/GBLWsTXvEf
— Embassy of Nepal, Islamabad (@NepEmbIsb) May 2, 2026
The city’s archaeological remains continue to attract scholars and pilgrims alike, reinforcing Pakistan’s place on the global Buddhist map.
The gathering also served as a platform for cultural exchange and dialogue. Officials referenced ongoing discussions between Pakistan and Nepal to expand cooperation in heritage preservation, tourism, and academic exchange.
Participants described the event as a symbol of global harmony, reflecting Vesak’s core message of peace, compassion, and unity.
Traditional chants by visiting monks, cultural performances, and exhibitions of Buddhist art added a ceremonial richness that resonated with attendees from diverse backgrounds.
