An international conference titled “FUTURE LIFE: Re-examining Rebirth”, a scholarly gathering on Saṃsāra in Buddhist philosophy, was held at the Postgraduate Institute of Pali and Buddhist Studies, University of Kelaniya, with the participation of distinguished international monastic and lay scholars.
Organised by the Foundation for Buddhist Brotherhood in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation, the Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka, and the Pali and Sanskrit Cultural Exchange Center, the event brought together renowned voices to explore the complex doctrine of rebirth and its continued relevance in contemporary Buddhist thought.
The Chief Guest of the event was the Honourable Minister of Buddhasasana, Hiniduma Sunil Senevi. The keynote address was delivered by Most Venerable Shartse Khensur Jangchup Choeden Rinpoche, Secretary General of the International Buddhist Confederation, New Delhi, India. In his keynote, Rinpoche emphasised the importance of revisiting ancient truths through both philosophical inquiry and compassionate dialogue.
The conference featured a distinguished panel of speakers, including:
Prof. Geshe Ngawang Samten, Ven. Prof. Gonadeniye Pangnarathana Thero, Ven. Prof. M. Wijithadhamma Thero, Khenpo Ugen Namgyel, Geshe Nicholas Vreeland, Tulku Jurme Dorjee, Ven. Welampale Rathanasara Thero, Khenpo Choying Dorjee, Pepiliyawala Narada Thero, Prof. K.B. Jayawardene, and Panchamee Hewavissenti.
Each presentation offered unique insights, ranging from canonical interpretations to the intersections of rebirth with ethics, psychology, and inter-religious dialogue. The scholarly depth of the sessions underscored the continuing relevance of Buddhist philosophy in both traditional and modern contexts.
The Valedictory Session was presided over by former Minister of Buddhasasana, Dr Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe, who commended the organisers and participants for contributing to a global conversation on one of the core tenets of Buddhism.
