January 17 : Lord Buddha’s philosophy has guided human being to peaceful coexistence for centuries, and his philosophy of peace, nonviolence, and pardon was more relevant in the present day complex society. This was stated by Prof Prem Kumar Dhumal, Chief Minister on the occasion of “Valedictory function of International Seminar on Buddhist Heritage of Gujrat’ at Vadodhra in Gujrat today.
Prof Dhumal said that the reference about Buddhism had been made in Hindu scriptures, including the Puranas. He said that Lord Buddha’s philosophy was more relevant even today when the world is infested by terrorism and filled with conflicting pockets of sectarian violence. He said that in such a situation it was the need of the hour that we follow the teachings of Lord Buddha for the betterment of the society. He said that there was no place in Buddhism cowards but the principle of pardon of the faith were meant for even the brave.
Chief Minister said that a person should rely upon God, who is the source of all strength. He said that violence arises out of fear, weakness, ignorance or restlessness. Thus we should change outlook on life re-orient mind. Violence was bound to decline when men learn to base their faith upon reality rather than on ignorance, he added.
Prof Dhumal said that world over Indians are known for non-violence, peaceful coexistence and communal harmony. He said that the preachings of Lord Buddha in his “Karmsthali” India were as relevant as they were 2500 years back. He said that in-fact they have become the integral part of the Indian ethos and lifestyle.
Chief Minister said that one word that brings peace is better than a thousand hollow words; therefore chaos is inherent in all compounded things. He said that Lord Buddha taught us that hatred does not cease by hatred, but only by love; this is the eternal rule. He said that Buddhism was playing a key role in bounding the people of the country in bond of brotherhood. He said that preaching of a caste free society with love, affection and peace as the epi-centre, was bound to make the nation a model for peaceful co-existence and communal harmony.
Prof. Dhumal said that Himachal Pradesh in general and tribal districts of the State have great influence of Buddhism. He said that Lochav Rattan Bhadra translated the teachings of Bhddhism into Bhoti language and Guru Rinpoche and Aacharaya Padam Sambhava, the saints who propagated Buddhism in Tibet hailed from Himachal Pradesh. He said that the world famous Buddhist Monastery in Rewalsar was also situated in the State.
Lauding the efforts of the organizers for organizing this event, Prof Dhumal said that the people of Gujrat were in true spirit following the teaching of Lord Buddha and now is being recognized as one of the vibrant and peaceful State of the country.