Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, addressing the 2569th Buddha Jayanti and Lumbini Day-2082 celebrations in the sacred birthplace of Lord Buddha, emphasized that the teachings of Buddha are essential in addressing the increasing global unrest and conflicts. In his speech at the main event held in Lumbini today, the Prime Minister stressed that only the message of peace from Buddha, not the power of weapons, can truly end violence and war.
Buddha Purnima
Speaking in front of a large gathering of national and international dignitaries, Prime Minister Oli cited recent tensions between India and Pakistan, noting that Nepal, along with the international community, had appealed to both countries for restraint. “We are pleased that both sides exercised restraint, preventing the situation from escalating into full-blown conflict,” he said.
Highlighting Nepal’s diplomatic initiative, Oli shared, “From the very beginning, we urged that the tension must not turn into war. We even communicated this directly with both countries, and they committed to not going to war.”
He pointed out that the teachings of Buddha hold universal relevance, capable of guiding individuals, families, and societies toward peace. “His messages are not limited to a particular era or location; they are timeless tools for internal and external harmony,” Oli said, warning against the growing arms race that threatens global humanity.
Prime Minister Oli expressed gratitude to all those who have contributed to the development of Lumbini, especially Professor Kenzo Tange, who prepared the Lumbini Master Plan. He acknowledged that parts of the plan still remain incomplete but affirmed that the government is committed to its swift completion.
Emphasizing the importance of spreading his message of peace, compassion, and humanity across the globe, Oli stated, “In order to preserve human existence and protect the planet, each individual must internalize the essence of compassion and goodwill found in Buddha’s teachings.”
He also highlighted the establishment of the Buddhist University in Nepal to facilitate the study and propagation of Buddha’s teachings, urging the institution to prioritize research and documentation.
Paying tribute to Buddha’s disciples, Oli commended their efforts in spreading the values of peace and love across cultures. He specifically mentioned the significant contribution of Bhikshu Ananda in compiling Buddha’s teachings in the Tripitaka. He said, “Bhikshu Ananda traveled to Taxila to inscribe the teachings on palm leaves, and that historic manuscript is still preserved at the Patna Museum in India.”
At the event, Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation and Chair of the Lumbini Development Trust, Badriprasad Pandey, announced that the sound system at the newly built meditation hall in Lumbini will be upgraded before the next Buddha Jayanti. He reiterated the government’s dedication to completing the Lumbini Master Plan and initiating broader development plans for the Greater Lumbini Area.
Minister Pandey emphasized the need to increase local engagement with Lumbini’s development and also discussed the government’s active role in ensuring regular operations at the Gautam Buddha International Airport and Pokhara International Airport. He mentioned that a high-level discussion with relevant stakeholders is scheduled for Jestha 7 to decide the way forward based on collected feedback.
Chief Minister of Lumbini Province, Chet Narayan Acharya, highlighted the growing importance of Buddhist philosophy and the urgent need to expand its reach in today’s world. He stressed that while Lumbini has established itself as a global spiritual center, regular flights at Gautam Buddha International Airport are crucial to attract more international tourists.
Vice-Chairman of the Lumbini Development Trust, Dr. Lharkyal Lama, also spoke about the importance of globally promoting Buddha’s teachings to end violence and conflict. He called for joint efforts to establish peace worldwide through the wisdom of the Enlightened One.
Indian Ambassador to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, stated that the relationship between Nepal and India is deeply rooted in shared historical, archaeological, and cultural ties. “The life journey of Lord Buddha, from birth to Parinirvana, clearly reflects the depth of our spiritual connection,” he said.
The grand celebration, held in Lumbini, the sacred site where Lord Buddha was born, served as a strong reminder of Nepal’s pivotal role in global peace initiatives. Leaders from different sectors united in the belief that in today’s fragmented world, the ancient teachings of Buddha can pave the way for harmony, understanding, and sustainable peace.
