During his recent visit, the Prime Minister of Thailand gifted a copy of the Tipitaka in Pali to the Indian PM, highlighting the deep cultural connection between India and Buddhism. Buddhism, founded in the 6th century BCE by Gautama Buddha, promotes enlightenment through the Middle Path, Four Noble Truths, and Eight-Fold Path. Here’s a concise overview of its history, key teachings, councils, and major sects.

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• Gautama Buddha, born in Lumbini (Nepal), founded Buddhism in 6th century BCE
• Left royal life after seeing old age, sickness, death; attained enlightenment at 35 in Gaya
• First sermon at Sarnath: “Dharmachakrapravartan” or Turning of the Wheel of Law
• Core teachings: Four Noble Truths and Eight-Fold Path to end suffering and attain Nirvana
• Tripitaka in Pali is main scripture: Vinaya Pitaka (rules), Sutta Pitaka (teachings), Abhidhamma Pitaka (philosophy)
• Four Buddhist Councils codified doctrines; led to schisms and evolution of schools
• Major sects: Hinayana (strict path), Mahayana (compassion path), Vajrayana (rituals and tantra)
• Important Bodhisattvas include Avalokiteshvara (compassion), Manjushri (wisdom), Maitreya (future Buddha)
• Buddhism spread across Asia: Sri Lanka, Myanmar, China, Japan, Tibet, and beyond
• Emphasizes karma, rebirth, ethical living; rejects caste, promotes non-violence