Call for World Peace from Ramagram Stupa by Prime Minister Prachanda

Lumbini, December 12, 2023

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' underscored the significance of Buddha's teachings for global peace, emanating from the relic stupa of Gautam Buddha in Ramagram. Speaking at the event organized by Ramgram Municipality and The Promise Land, under the leadership of Lumbini Development Trust, the Prime Minister inaugurated the program by lighting the peace lamp, symbolizing the initiation of the ambitious development plan for the Ramagram area.

Emphasizing the relevance of Gautam Buddha's teachings in the current global context, Prime Minister Prachanda appealed to world leaders to adopt the wisdom and guidance provided by Buddha's teachings for the betterment of humanity. He made a special appeal for peace from the sacred grounds of Ramagram.

Drawing parallels with the historical Emperor Asoka, who transitioned from a war commander to a leader dedicated to peace, Prime Minister Prachanda called for unity and commitment from world leaders to embrace the teachings of peace and education originating from Buddha's birthplace in Lumbini.

Recognizing the significance of Ramagram Stupa as the exclusive site containing Buddha's relic, Prime Minister Prachanda stressed the necessity for its comprehensive development. He outlined plans for establishing a World Peace City by connecting Ramagram, Lumbini, and Tilaurakot, emphasizing the crucial role these places play in the development and promotion of peace and cultural heritage.

He drew a historical parallel between the relevance of Ramagram Stupa and Emperor Asoka's establishment of the Asoka Pillar in Lumbini, contributing to the global dissemination of Buddha's teachings. Urging people to earnestly follow Buddha's teachings with integrity, Prime Minister Prachanda stated, 'While interpretations may differ, Ramagram Stupa stands as an unparalleled entity globally. I appeal for sincere adherence to Buddha's teachings, both within and beyond our borders.'

Prime Minister Prachanda also expressed gratitude to the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for endorsing the call for world peace from Lumbini during his recent visit. He commended the practical impact of the appeal and the transformative changes achieved through collective efforts during the event.

In the program, Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Sudan Kirati, likened Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda to Emperor Asoka, highlighting the transition from war to peace. He emphasized that the Prime Minister has demonstrated leadership not only in bringing peace from conflict but also in leading towards prosperity from peace.

The minister expressed confidence in the Prime Minister's leadership in the development of the Lumbini region, including Ramagram. He emphasized the singular significance of Ramagram in Nepal, where the Buddha's relic is enshrined. He mentioned that activities related to the cultural and religious significance of the Ramagram Stupa, which has been in existence for over 1,500 years, could attract religious tourists. He shared the plan to build a heritage village in the region and acknowledged the operation of an airport by placing the Buddha Circuit at the center, even though it might not have been successful.

Dr. Lharkyal Lama, Vice-Chair of the Lumbini Development Trust, underscored the unique existence of the Ramagram Stupa. He highlighted the importance of Ramagram Stupa in preserving the historical significance of Buddha's life and suggested financial support from the fund for its greater development.

The Mayor of Ramagram Municipality, Dhanpat Yadav, emphasized collaboration with local authorities to complete the master plan project and requested adequate budget allocation from the federal government.

Indian BJP Member of Parliament Ram Madhav acknowledged the historical and archaeological significance of Nepal despite its small size.

Architect Stefano provided information about the conceptual master plan of the Ramagram project.

During the program, Prime Minister Prachanda lit lamps for world peace at the Ramgram Stupa. Various speakers, including Acharya Balkrishna, Member Secretary Sanuraja Shakya, Niraj Adhikari, President of the Promised Land, addressed the event.

On Monday evening, Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Minister Kiranti and Vice-Chair Dr. Lama lit 1,112 peace candles and 7,000 lamps. The Ramagram Stupa stands as the solitary site where the only relic of Gautama Buddha is preserved, symbolizing peace.