Photo: OHHDL
In a series of events across the state of Uttar Pradesh last week, His Holiness the Dalai Lama championed the Indian values of ahimsa (non-violence) and karuna (compassion), to foster peace in today’s world. He also called for integration within modern education of both the study of science and technology and a greater emphasis on ancient teachings to better train the mind and our emotions.
On September 21, His Holiness met with roughly one hundred academics and diplomats in New Delhi, before travelling south to the sacred city of Mathura for a 2-day stay at the ashram of Swami Karshni Gurusharanandaji Maharaj. Throughout the week, His Holiness referred to India’s long-standing culture of inter-religious harmony, founded on ahimsa and karuna, seeing these core principles as “the only way to put an end to violence in the world.” He urged India to spread its culture of peace and encourage other states to follow its example of religious tolerance to avoid conflict.
His Holiness explained that the study of ahimsa and karuna aren’t inherently religious and can be studied objectively. Also on education, he emphasised the value of teaching “emotional hygiene” to work through emotions and cultivate greater peace of mind in future generations. His Holiness was recognised by Maharaj-ji for his tireless efforts to benefit humanity through his wisdom and love.
Travelling back Delhi on September 25 to meet leaders from the Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Jain and Christian faiths at the Gandhi Ashram, His Holiness joined his fellow leaders in highlighting that the key missions for all religions center around cultivating tolerance and love. Finally, he pushed for greater environmental protection in light of climate change and high population growth, stating that “as we unite for peace, we must unite for our Planet.” Mahatma Gandhi had stayed and worked at the same ashram between 1930 and 1940 while spearheading India’s independence from British rule through the practice of ahimsa.
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