Thiri Khit Oo (NSS) - June 1

Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has conferred the title of International Award for Promotion of Buddhism 2023 on Myanmar’s Venerable Sitagu Sayadaw Dr. Ashin Nyanissara by holding an awarding ceremony on 31 May at the India Center in Yangon. 

In the ceremony, the title was awarded by H.E Mr Kumar Tuhin, Director General Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR).

During the ceremony, the friendship of neighboring countries of India and Myanmar has been connected by the teaching of Lord Buddha for millennia spreading the message of peace and enlightenment. The sacred sites of Bodh Gaya in India and Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, Myanmar are enduring symbols of the Buddhist heritage of both countries, Ambassador Abhay Thakur delivered a speech. 

In addition, Venerable Sitagu Sayadaw Dr. Ashin Nyanissara was an example of the essence of Buddhist teaching through Sayadaw’s tireless efforts in promoting peace and unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes. Sayadaw has also played a pivotal role in providing education, healthcare, and humanitarian aid to the people across Myanmar. In addition to the mentioned facts, Sayadaw’s initiatives have promoted cultural exchanges and facilitated scholarly dialogue, enriching the cultural tapestry of both countries, according to Ambassador Abhay Thakur. 

Venerable Sitagu Sayadaw Dr. Ashin Nyanissara work as a teacher began in 1977 and encompasses religious, educational, medical, and infrastructural activities with a humanitarian spirit. 

The ceremony was attended by Venerable Sayadaws who came to honor Sitagu Sayadaw Dr. Ashin Nyanissara, the Ambassador of India to Myanmar H.E Mr Abhay Thakur, Union Minister for Information U Maung Maung Ohn, Union Minister of Religious Affairs and Culture U Tin Oo Lwin, Chief Minister of Yangon Region U Soe Thein, Mayor and Chairman of Yangon City Development Committee U Bo Htay, President of U Nu Daw Mya Yi Foundation Daw Than Than Nu, invited scholars and academics.