PM Modi: Recognizing Pali as a Classical Language Honors Buddha’s Legacy

On Thursday, October 17, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that granting Pali classical language status is a tribute to the rich heritage of Lord Buddha. Speaking at a programme marking International Abhidhamma Divas, he criticized previous Congress governments for neglecting India’s cultural legacy after Independence.

PM Modi remarked that while nations draw strength from their heritage, India was held back. He stated that invaders sought to erase India’s identity before Independence, and those with a “slave mindset” continued this erasure afterward. According to Modi, an ecosystem emerged that led the country away from its cultural roots.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed that his government’s policies are inspired by Buddha’s teachings, asserting that the world—struggling with instability and insecurity—can find solutions not through “yuddh” (war) but through the wisdom of Buddha. He stressed that Buddha’s teachings are not only relevant but essential, adding that Buddha’s spirit lives in India’s soul.

भारत ने अपने विकास का जो रोडमैप बनाया है, उसमें भगवान बुद्ध के संदेश हमारा पथ-प्रदर्शक हैं। pic.twitter.com/DJIyVGRkdY

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 17, 2024

PM Modi praised the nation’s progress, saying it is now moving forward with self-respect, confidence, and pride, free from inferiority complexes. He linked this transformation to bold decisions, including granting classical language status to both Pali and Marathi.

The Prime Minister also paid tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, an influential Dalit leader who embraced Buddhism, noting that his government has been working to develop places associated with Ambedkar and Buddhism.

Highlighting that Buddha’s teachings were originally preserved in Pali, PM Modi emphasized the importance of preserving the language, which is no longer widely spoken.

He concluded by extending greetings on the occasions of Sharad Purnima and Valmiki Jayanti, celebrated on the same day.