Baijnath (Kameshwar Sharma): The Buddhist Knowledge Tradition can help the world overcome modern challenges, said Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta. He spoke at a national seminar in Tashijong, Baijnath. According to the Governor, Lord Buddha’s teachings are more relevant than ever. The world continues to face violence, intolerance, wars, environmental crises, and declining moral values.
He attended the seminar titled “From Nalanda to Himalayas – The Unbroken Legacy of the Buddhist Knowledge Tradition” as the chief guest. During his address, he emphasized that Buddha’s message of compassion, non-violence, self-realization, and the Middle Path remains timeless.
Buddha’s Teachings Remain Relevant
Kavinder Gupta referred to the eternal message of the Dhammapada. He said hatred can never end through hatred. Instead, only love and compassion can eliminate hatred. Therefore, society must embrace these values to create lasting peace.
He added that Buddha’s teachings offer practical guidance for resolving many of today’s global conflicts.
Nalanda’s Legacy Lives in the Himalayas
Furthermore, the Governor described the ancient Nalanda University as much more than an educational institution. He said Nalanda served as a global center of learning. Scholars carried out advanced research in philosophy, logic, medicine, grammar, mathematics, and astronomy.
Although the physical university no longer exists, its legacy continues. Himalayan monasteries and Buddhist institutions have preserved its priceless manuscripts, languages, culture, and traditions. As a result, the Nalanda tradition remains alive in the Indian Himalayas. As a result, the Indian Himalayas continue to protect Nalanda’s intellectual heritage.
Modern Education for Monastic Students
The Governor praised the Indian Himalayan Nalanda Buddhist Tradition Council for introducing National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) courses in monasteries.
According to him, this initiative will bridge the gap between traditional monastic education and modern academics. Moreover, it will enable young monks and nuns to continue their spiritual training while earning nationally recognized educational qualifications.
Call to Inspire Youth
Kavinder Gupta appreciated the efforts of the Council, which was established under the guidance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. He also encouraged young people to learn from the Nalanda tradition’s core values, including curiosity, logical thinking, discipline, compassion, and service to humanity.
In addition, he said India must preserve its knowledge systems, cultural heritage, and moral values while embracing science and technology. Only then, he added, can the country achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Seminar Focuses on Buddhist Philosophy
The national seminar was organized by the Indian Himalayan Nalanda Buddhist Tradition Council in collaboration with Khampagar Monastery, Tashijong.
During the discussions, scholars explored the modernization of monastic education and examined how Buddhist philosophy can help address global challenges. The event brought together religious leaders, education experts, government officials, and public representatives to exchange ideas on preserving India’s rich Buddhist heritage.
Several dignitaries attended the seminar, including representatives from the Central Tibetan Administration, Khampagar Monastery, Palpung Sherabling Monastery, NIOS, the Kangra district administration, and the Himachal Pradesh Police.
Key Highlights of the news:
- Governor Kavinder Gupta said the Buddhist Knowledge Tradition offers solutions to modern challenges such as violence, intolerance, war, and climate change.
- He addressed a national seminar titled “From Nalanda to Himalayas – The Unbroken Legacy of the Buddhist Knowledge Tradition” in Tashijong, Baijnath.
- The Governor described Nalanda University as a global center of learning and praised Himalayan monasteries for preserving its intellectual and cultural heritage.
- He appreciated the initiative to introduce NIOS courses in monasteries, helping monks and nuns combine traditional Buddhist education with modern academic qualifications.
- Kavinder Gupta urged young people to embrace the Nalanda tradition’s values of compassion, logical thinking, discipline, and service to help achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
