Story perspectives

Buddhism’s Role in Nationalism Explored, Spread Mapped Across Asia

5/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

The series investigates how Buddhist teachings are employed by ethnic nationalist movements in Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Thailand.
Aatish Taseer publishes a three-part travel story on Buddhism’s spread across Nepal, Thailand and Taiwan in T’s Travel issue, tracing its origins in Lumbini, Ashoka’s pillar and its Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana branches.
The issue also provides a map, timeline, glossary, monument snapshot and reading list for readers.

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Story summary

The series investigates how Buddhist teachings are employed by ethnic nationalist movements in Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Thailand.
Aatish Taseer publishes a three-part travel story on Buddhism’s spread across Nepal, Thailand and Taiwan in T’s Travel issue, tracing its origins in Lumbini, Ashoka’s pillar and its Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana branches.
The issue also provides a map, timeline, glossary, monument snapshot and reading list for readers.