Dhammachai International Research Institute (DIRI)

Welcome to the Dhammachai International Research Institute (DIRI) located at 399 George Street in Dunedin, New Zealand. As an establishment and point of interest, DIRI offers a unique and specialized resource known as the DIRI Center for Gāndhārī Studies (DIRI-CGS). This center is dedicated to the study, research, and exchange of knowledge and academic opinions on the Kharoshthi script and Kandari language.

Whether you are a scholar, student, or simply a member of the general public with an interest in ancient history, linguistics, or South Asian studies, the DIRI-CGS is designed to cater to your needs. With extensive opportunities for exploration, this center provides a platform for in-depth examination of two fascinating areas of interest.

The Dhammachai International Research Institute (DIRI) of New Zealand and New Zealand has long been committed to education and research in Buddhist Studies. Over the years, the Institute has conducted research on "the Original Teachings of the Buddha" and has now taken the initiative to organize an International Seminar on early Buddhism. This seminar will bring together Buddhist scholars from around the world who specialize in early Buddhist studies.

In addition to its research and educational endeavors, DIRI has collaborated with various organizations to host seminars and events of great significance. For instance, DIRI, along with its network organizations, organized a seminar on "Archaeological Perspectives on History of Buddhism & Recent Research on Dhammakaya and Boran Meditation Traditions" in April 2014. The seminar featured Professor Doctor Zemaryalai Tarzi, a renowned archaeologist, as the lecturer on the "History of Buddhism in Archaeological Perspectives."

Another notable event hosted by DIRI was the Early Buddhist Manuscripts Seminar in 2019, where Professor Garry W. Trompf, an esteemed expert in the History of Ideas, delivered a keynote speech on "Breakthroughs in the Discovery of Ancient Religious Manuscripts." This seminar, organized in collaboration with the Religion Programme at the University of Otago, took place at Castle 1 Lecture Theatre (CAST1) in New Zealand.

At DIRI, we strive to provide a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of Buddhist Studies, offering valuable insights into ancient history, linguistics, and South Asian studies. Whether you are a student, scholar, or someone with a general interest in these subjects, we welcome you to explore the wealth of knowledge and resources available at the Dhammachai International Research Institute.