Peace Bell Inaugurated in Lumbini

November 28, 2023, Lumbini: On Tuesday, Minister Sudhan Kirati, responsible for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, inaugurated the 'Peace Bell' in Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha. The 1.5-ton bell, constructed under the guidance of Korean Buddhist monk Sanmuk Heja at the Korea-Nepal Friendship Peace Park, was officially unveiled, resonating its toll for global peace.

During the inauguration, 108 Buddhist pilgrims, part of the Pilgrimage Prayer Group and members of the Lumbini Development Committee, offered prayers for peace as the Korean bell echoed. Following the ceremony, Minister Kirati, joined by other dignitaries, rang the bell at Buddha's birthplace, sending a powerful message of peace to the world.

Minister Kirati highlighted that the bell, crafted by Korean Buddhist Monk Sanmuk Heja, symbolizes a robust bond between Korea and Nepal, fostering altruistic relationships between Korean and Nepalese people. He expressed confidence that the bell would play a significant role in spreading the message of peace globally.

Further underscoring the historical ties between Nepal and Korea, Minister Kiranti likened them to be as ancient and tranquil as the ocean and as profound as the Himalayas. He urged the Korean people to support the campaign encouraging Buddhists worldwide to visit Lumbini.

Revealing plans for a modern birthing center in Lumbini, Minister Kirati stressed the necessity for a facility like the Mayadevi Maternity Hospital to support the birth of children akin to Buddha. He called on Buddhists worldwide to rally behind this initiative.

During the event, Member Secretary read the message of Dr. Lharkyal Lama (Khempo Chime), Vice-Chair of Lumbini Development Trust. He delivered a message, expressing gratitude to the Korean Buddhist guru Sanmuk Heja and the Buddhist followers in Korea for their participation in the unveiling and inauguration of the Peace Bell. He emphasized that the meaning of the Peace Bell goes beyond its physical presence, symbolizing the teachings of peace and compassion taught by Buddha, contributing to the global understanding of conflict resolution and the establishment of peace through the education of kindness and compassion.

Additionally, Pro. Dr. Suvarnalal Bajracharya, Vice-Chancellor of Lumbini Buddhist University, and Thejungsa Nundak, Secretary of the Korean Buddhist Joge Order, elaborated on the Peace Bell's importance in creating a religious ambiance in Lumbini. The gathering included various dignitaries, such as Korean Counselor for Nepal Jing Hee, Project Chief Saroj Bhattarai, Information Chief Dr. Hari D. Rai, and LDT officials.

Preceding the bell inauguration, on Monday, the Korean Buddhist Chief Abbot, along with monks, nuns, and devotees, performed rituals at the Mayadevi Temple and the bell construction site in Lumbini.