The Role of Buddhist Philosophy in Traditional and Digital Media for South Asian Public Diplomacy

Abstract

The Buddhist philosophy has always been directed towards peace and stability in the countries in South Asia, which originated from the land of Nepal. This study discovers that traditional and digital media are the strategic tools for diffusing and communicating knowledge-based Buddhist philosophy. Whereas, public diplomacy can be effective for making broader knowledge for maintaining peace and stability within South Asian Countries. The knowledge has originated in Nepal, the teachings methodology of Buddhism grounded in compassion, non-violence, mindfulness, and interdependence, which have become instrumental in shaping moral messaging and soft power strategies among the countries in South Asia like Nepal, India, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka. Using a qualitative method, the research examines the role of cultural storytelling, tourism campaigns, academic diplomacy, and digital platforms in promoting Buddhist ideals on regional and global stages. The findings reveal that Buddhist-informed public diplomacy contributes to peacebuilding, which enhances the worldwide image and promotes intercultural understanding. However, the instrumentalization of religious narratives for political reasons encounters attitudes. In spite of this, the incorporation of Buddhist beliefs in public diplomacy has exposed potential in making a peaceful narrative for South Asia for promoting international relations.