“There is a necessity to learn Compassion and Dialogue from Buddha” – Shri Rambahadur Rai

New Delhi: On the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima, the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), under the Ministry of Culture, released a book titled ‘Echoes of Enlightenment: IGNCA’s Journey into Buddhism’. The book launch featured prominent dignitaries Shri Rambahadur Rai, President of IGNCA Trust; Sri Abhijit Halder, Director General of the International Buddhist Confederation; Prof. Sudhamahi Ragunathan, former Vice-Chancellor of Jain Vishwa Bharati University; Prof. Amarjiva Lochan , University of Delhi; and Prof. Ramesh C. Gaur, Dean (Administration) and HoD of Kala Nidhi Division. The book edited by Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of IGNCA, and Dr. Mayank Shekhar, highlights IGNCA’s explorations into Buddhism.

In his presidential address, Shri Ram Bahadur Rai emphasized the crucial lessons that we need to learn from Lord Buddha in contemporary times are compassion and dialogue. He highlighted the pressing need for these values globally. Shri Rai also expressed concern about the current interpretations of Buddha in Indian society. He pointed out an emerging discourse portraying Buddha as anti-Brahmin, driven by several prominent scholars. However, he questioned how someone who epitomizes compassion could be opposed to any group, community or people.

In his address, Shri Abhijit Halder highlighted the urgent need to bridge the knowledge gap in Buddhism in contemporary times. He explained that historical invasions had resulted in significant loss of Buddhist knowledge, which now needs to be restored. This restoration can significantly contribute to the understanding of Dharma and the betterment of mankind. He emphasized that Buddhism, both as a philosophy and a practice, is timeless and capable of adapting to societal changes. Sharing his experiences from post-Soviet Mongolia, Shri Halder noted how Buddhism positively transformed the country. He also mentioned the potential for future collaboration between the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) and IGNCA to further this cause. Shri Halder concluded by encouraging individuals to contribute to the spread of Buddhist teachings for the good of society by practicing ‘Shil’ (morality and ethics), ‘Samadhi’ (concentration and mindfulness), and ‘Pragya’ (wisdom and understanding).

Prof. Sudhamahi Ragunathan remarked that the spread of Buddhism beyond India has been magnificent and beautiful. She highlighted that Buddhism was the first organized religion to reach the West. Praising the book, she noted that it is highly significant not only for IGNCA but for all of humanity. Prof. Amarjiva Lochan stated that Buddhism and Hinduism support each other; where one thrives, the other will too. He stressed the importance of understanding their complementary relationship from within, without relying on outside perspectives. He illustrated this interdependence with an example: two years ago in Sri Lanka, a major Buddhist temple’s Buddha Purnima celebration was delayed because they couldn’t find a crucial item for the ceremony that was cow’s milk.

Earlier, Dr. Mayank Shekhar, the co-editor of the book, provided a detailed overview of the book. He mentioned that the book is divided into three sections. The first section focuses on IGNCA, the second on Buddha and Buddhism, and the third on IGNCA’s initiatives and efforts in studying and understanding Buddha and Buddhism. At the beginning of the program, Prof. Ramesh Chandra Gaur introduced the event, and at the end, gratitude was expressed to the guests. The program was moderated by Mr. Gopal from the Kala Nidhi Division.