Itanagar: Arunachal Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Wednesday participated in the first International Sangha Forum (ISF) 2023 at Bodh Gaya, Bihar wherein he sought the blessings of His Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama and invited the Tibetan spiritual leader to pay a visit to Arunachal Pradesh.
The three-day event on “Bridging Traditions, Embracing Modernity: A Dialogue on the Buddha’s Teaching in Today’s World” was inaugurated by the Dalai Lama.
“Blessed to have received audience with His Holiness the 14th @DalaiLama today at Bodhgaya, Bihar. Sought his blessings for welfare of all. Engaging discussions on compassion, peace, and humanity’s welfare ensued. Invited His Holiness to visit Arunachal Pradesh,” Khandu wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
He further said to have “received invaluable teachings on Boddhicitta – purging evils within us through compassion. Bodhicitta’s essence lies in a kind heart willing to aid others and refrain from causing harm. Imagine being a good swimmer on a beach; helping someone drowning symbolizes this essence. An inspiring and enlightening experience,” the CM said.
Further sharing that he was privileged to participate in the ISF-2023 at the sacred Bodh Gaya, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, Khandu said in another post, “Grateful that such programs are being organised under the aegis of Buddhist International Programs aligned with His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s vision of fostering dialogues and collaboration across diverse Buddhist traditions.”
“…In this age of shared knowledge and wisdom, our unity is a potent force against ignorance, violence, injustice, economic disparity, and social discord. As global challenges loom, embracing Buddha’s teachings of Karuna and non-violence are crucial for peaceful coexistence,” he said.
The International Sangha Forum’s theme, ‘Bridging Traditions, Embracing Modernity,’ provides a platform to collectively imbibe Buddha’s teachings, not just in personal lives but also in shaping high-level policies for a harmonious world, Khandu added.
