By Our Staff Reporter
Dehradun, 23 May: Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd) participated as Chief Guest in a program organized at IRDT Auditorium, on the occasion of Buddha Purnima. He extended greetings for the Buddha Purnima festival to the attendees and to the followers of Lord Buddha worldwide on this sacred full moon of the Vaishakh month.
On this occasion, the Governor honored Dharmacharya Shantum Seth and the Tibetan Women’s Association with the Dhamma Ratna Award-2024. Seth was not present as he is in the US right now.
The Governor stated that Buddha is an embodiment of collective consciousness of humanity. Buddha is both awareness and research, thought and culture. Buddha is special because he not only preached but also made humanity experience knowledge. He had the courage to renounce great wealth and extreme luxuries.
Lt Gen Singh said that Lord Buddha made us realize that renunciation is more significant than acquisition. Fulfillment comes through renunciation. Hence, he wandered in the forests, renounced all luxuries, practiced penance, and conducted research. After reaching the pinnacle of knowledge through self-research, he gave us the mantra: “Be your own light.” Accept my words only after testing them.
The Governor further added that when we start viewing human life in its entirety like Lord Buddha, there is no room for division and discrimination. We naturally begin to live the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family) reflected in the teachings of Buddha from ‘Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah’ (may all beings be happy) to ‘Bhavatu Sabba Mangalam’ (may all be blessed). Thus, transcending geographical boundaries, Buddha belongs to everyone and is for everyone.
The Governor emphasized that India is the land of Lord Buddha, which is a matter of pride for us all. To make our lives happy, we must follow Lord Buddha’s path of compassion, service, and renunciation. He mentioned that Buddha‘s every word holds immense power. During his service in the mountains, especially in Ladakh, he had the opportunity to hear and learn about Buddha‘s teachings and thoughts.
He said that Lord Buddha, instead of just feeling sad about someone’s suffering, was always ready to help remove that suffering. Inspired by his guidance, every person should follow the path of compassion and service that he showed us.
The Governor mentioned that Lord Buddha suggested living a meaningful life and striving to help all those in need. If that’s not possible, then at least we should avoid causing harm to anyone.
According to Sanatan Dharma, Buddha is the 9th incarnation of Lord Vishnu, which makes this day sacred for Hindus as well. He urged everyone to pledge to embody Lord Buddha‘s ideals in their lives on this auspicious day.
The Governor said that Lord Buddha‘s teachings are highly relevant in the 21st century. His life was dedicated to eliminating suffering and injustice from society. In the present time, Buddha‘s message of compassion and love can significantly help save the world, and those who follow Buddha must play an active role in this.
On this occasion, the President of Doon Buddhist Committee, Khenpo Konchok Rangdol, highlighted the life of Lord ji Buddha and expressed gratitude for the Governor’s presence. Buddhist nuns from Drikung nunnery presented Buddha Vandana. The Dikyiling Zumba Group, Bhutanese students, Ladakh & Arunachal Pradesh students, Tibetan Private ITI students, Tiska & Navika, and others performed cultural dance that enthralled the audience and guests.
The program began with a beautiful song dedicated to Buddha on ‘Ahimsa Param Dharma’ (non-violence is the supreme duty). Students of the Tibetan Children’s Home, Clement Town, performed the ‘Tashi Shopa’ dance.
The event was attended by many dignitaries including the former Chairman of Uttarakhand Minority Commission Dr RK Jain, President of Aurobindo Society, Dehradun, Madhu Anjali, Tibetan Settlement Officer Dhondup Gyalpo La, Vice-President of Doon Buddhist Committee Tsering Chozom Luding and office bearers and members of the Doon Buddhist Committee.
The program was followed by a city Parikrama for world peace & harmony and offering of vegetarian meals to all.
