Modernisation of Buddhism: Contributions of Ambedkar and Dalai Lama-XIV

The book develops its argument through seven main chapters. Chapter I, “Methodology in Buddhist History,” discusses how Buddhism should be studied through historical, social, cultural, and interpretive frameworks rather than merely through traditional narratives. Chapter II, “Emergence of Buddhism in the Context of Contesting Philosophies and Social Conditions in Ancient India,” examines the rise of Buddhism against the background of Vedic, Brahmanical, materialist, Jain, and other intellectual currents, emphasizing the Buddha’s challenge to ritualism, hierarchy, and social inequality. Chapter III, “Modernisation of Buddhism,” analyzes the meaning of modernisation and how Buddhism responds to modern social, ethical, and political questions. Chapter IV, “Ambedkar’s Revival of Buddhism,” focuses on Ambedkar’s reinterpretation of Buddhism as a rational, egalitarian, and emancipatory path for modern India. Chapter V, “Dalai Lama-XIV and the Contribution of Buddhism,” presents the Dalai Lama’s role in globalizing Buddhist values such as compassion, peace, non-violence, and universal responsibility. Chapter VI, “Buddhism in Modern India,” studies Buddhist development in contemporary India, including Ambedkarite Buddhism, Tibetan Buddhism, and the position of Buddhism in modern Indian society. Chapter VII, “Conclusion: Cultural Change as Prelude to Social Change,” synthesizes the book’s central thesis that Buddhist modernisation is not merely doctrinal reform but a cultural and ethical transformation directed toward justice, equality, and democratic social renewal.