2024-10-17 12:48 PM IST
On October 17, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated International Abhidhamma Divas and the recognition of Pali as a classical language. This day marks the descent of Lord Buddha from the Tāvatiṃsa heaven to Sankassiya, now Sankisa Basantapur in Uttar Pradesh. The location is historically significant, featuring the Asokan Elephant Pillar, a symbol of this event. According to Pali texts, Buddha first preached the Abhidhamma to the Tavatimsa Gods, led by his mother, before sharing the teachings with his disciple Sariputta upon his return to Earth. The day also coincides with the end of the first Rainy Retreat and the Pavāraṇā festival, adding to its significance in the Buddhist calendar.
