On the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu attended a special program organized at the Sambhota Tibetan School. The event, celebrating both the birth anniversary and the enlightenment of Lord Buddha, saw Sukhu extending heartfelt greetings to the gathered audience. He urged everyone to embrace the profound teachings of Lord Buddha, especially his mantra, “Appa Deepo Bhava,” which means “Be your own light.” According to Sukhu, this mantra emphasizes self-reliance, a principle that continues to play a pivotal role in the journey of building a self-reliant nation, especially in today’s context of India’s pursuit of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).
In his address, Sukhu highlighted the timeless relevance of Buddha’s teachings, noting that they remain just as meaningful today as they were during ancient times. “In an age where violence, intolerance, and distrust are rampant, the teachings of Lord Buddha offer us a pathway to peace, compassion, and tolerance. These are not merely philosophies, but a way of life that we must all strive to adopt,” said the Chief Minister. His words resonate deeply, especially in an era where global tensions often overshadow the ideals of harmony and understanding.
The Chief Minister further shared the sacred significance of this day, noting that Lord Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and Mahaparinirvana all coincided on Buddha Purnima, making this day a sacred confluence of three monumental events in Buddhist history. For Sukhu, Lord Buddha’s life exemplifies the virtues of compassion, peace, and humanity, offering a guiding light for all of humanity. “In a world where material pursuits often lead to stress and imbalance, the teachings of Buddha guide us toward true happiness, peace, and harmony,” he remarked.
Drawing from his own experiences, Sukhu also shared a personal connection with the Sambhota Tibetan School. Recalling his time as a Municipal Councillor in Shimla, Sukhu fondly remembered his interactions with the school community, where many of his friends were students. He also reminisced about playing cricket at the school during winter vacations, highlighting the personal significance of the institution in his life.
On this momentous occasion, the Chief Minister honored two distinguished individuals, Tshering Palkit Negi and Pema Dorjee, by presenting them with the prestigious India-Tibet Friendship Award. The ceremony was followed by a vibrant cultural program showcasing the rich traditions of Tibet, Kinnaur, and Lahaul-Spiti. The performance beautifully encapsulated the cultural diversity and unity that Buddha’s teachings symbolize, with music and dance that echoed the harmony between these regions.
This celebration of Buddha Purnima also underscored the growing ties between India and Tibet, with the Chief Minister’s words aligning closely with the country’s efforts to promote peace, self-reliance, and cultural preservation. The event not only marked an important religious observance but also served as a reminder of the enduring power of Buddha’s message in fostering a peaceful and compassionate world.
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