Buddhism

Third Dhamma Padayatra to Reach Hyderabad Today; Monks to be Welcomed at Ambedkar Statue

The Third Dhamma Padayatra, a long-distance peace march aimed at promoting the teachings of Gautama Buddha, is set to arrive in Hyderabad on February 18, 2026. This event will see hundreds of Buddhist monks from India and Thailand participating in a journey that emphasizes compassion and non-violence.

The monks will be formally welcomed at the Dr. B. R. Ambedkar 125 Feet Statue, where dignitaries, including Telangana’s Minister for Tourism and Culture, Jupally Krishna Rao, will be present to honor their arrival.

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Background of the Dhamma Padayatra

The Dhamma Padayatra is a significant event in the Buddhist calendar, designed to spread the core messages of peace, compassion, and non-violence as taught by Gautama Buddha. The third edition of this march commenced at the Siddhartha Buddha Vihara in Karnataka, covering over 400 kilometers on foot.

Event Details

The monks are expected to reach the Ambedkar statue at approximately 1 p.m. on February 18. Following the welcome ceremony, they will pay homage at the statue before proceeding to the historic Buddha statue located at Lumbini Park on Hussainsagar Lake.

Key details of the event include:

  • Date: February 18, 2026
  • Location: Dr. B. R. Ambedkar 125 Feet Statue, Hyderabad
  • Participants: Hundreds of Buddhist monks from India and Thailand
  • Distance Covered: Over 400 kilometers

Significance of the Event

This padayatra not only serves as a spiritual journey for the monks but also aims to foster a sense of community and shared values among participants and spectators alike. The teachings of Buddha emphasize the importance of compassion and non-violence, which are particularly relevant in today’s world.

By bringing together monks from different regions, the event highlights the unity within the Buddhist community and encourages dialogue on peace and harmony.

Ceremonies and Activities

After the homage at the Ambedkar statue, the monks will engage in various ceremonies at Lumbini Park. These activities are expected to include:

  1. Prayer sessions
  2. Discussions on Buddhist teachings
  3. Cultural performances reflecting Buddhist traditions

The monks will stay at the Mahabodhi Buddha Vihara until February 19, where they will continue to engage with the local community and share teachings.

Continuation of the Journey

Following their stay in Hyderabad, the Dhamma Padayatra will proceed through Uppal, Ibrahimpatnam, and Kondamallepalli, culminating at Buddhavanam on March 1. This extended journey aims to reach various communities and spread messages of peace across different regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the Dhamma Padayatra?

The Dhamma Padayatra aims to promote the teachings of Gautama Buddha, focusing on compassion and non-violence, while fostering community engagement.

Who are the participants in the march?

Participants include hundreds of Buddhist monks from India and Thailand, as well as local community members and dignitaries.

What activities are planned during the event?

Activities include prayer sessions, discussions on Buddhist teachings, and cultural performances that reflect Buddhist traditions.

Note: The Dhamma Padayatra serves as a reminder of the importance of peace and compassion in our daily lives, encouraging individuals to reflect on these values.