By Neha Sharma , Bhopal : Chief Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan has said that Lord Buddha was the light of the world. He introduced the world smitten by materialism with divine knowledge. Mahatma Buddha belonged to entire world. The State Government has reserved 68 acre land for the establishment of International Buddhist University. It is our endevour to develop the university in such a way that it disseminates teachings of Buddhism throughout the world. He informed that the process for establishment of the university is pending with the Union Government for approval.
Shri Chouhan expressed these views while addressing International Baudhh Mela programme at Buddhabhumi Matriya Mahavihar at Chuna Bhatti here today. Chief Minister Shri Chouhan also released a souvenir entitled ‘The Buddha Bhumi’. National president of Dhammasena Shri Bhadant Arya Nagarjun Surai Sarsai, national president of Vishwa Baudhh Sangh Bhadant Dr. Gyanratna Mahasthavir, MP Shri Narayan Singh Kesri and Scheduled Caste Commission Chairman Shri Indresh Gajbhiye were also present on the occasion.
Chief Minister Shri Chouhan said that Mahatma Buddha was an ocean of mercy, love and pity. In his Five Principles (Panchasheel), he has propounded that the world is beset with difficulties and sorrow. Enumerating the reasons behind sorrow, he propounded the path of Asthang for its redressal. The Chief Minister said that the knowledge imparted to the world by a prince after abdicating throne and meditating for 12 years is unique.
Chief Minister Shri Chouhan said that the soil of Madhya Pradesh is proud that a great person like Baba Saheb Ambedkar was born on it. He informed that a Mahakumbh is being organised every year at Mhow, the birthplace of Dr. Ambedkar. Shri Chouhan informed that a function is also held at his residence on Buddha Jayanti. He also invited those present on the occasion to attend this programme.
The programme was conducted by Sagar Bhante Ji. At the outset, Chief Minister Shri Chouhan offered flowers to a statue of Tathagat Buddha. He inaugurated the function by lighting a lamp in front of a portrait of Baba Saheb Ambedkar.