The Chanting of the Tripitaka has begun in Lumbini

March 3, 2024, Lumbini: The third international Tripitaka chanting commenced in Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, on Sunday. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Home Affairs, Hon. Narayan Kaji Shrestha, inaugurated the three-day Tripitaka chanting program, organized by the All Nepal Bhikshu Mahasangha in collaboration with various organizations. The chanting took place at the Maya Devi Temple premises in Lumbini. In his inaugural address, Deputy Prime Minister Shrestha underscored the global significance of Buddha's teachings and announced the worldwide observance of 'International Meditation Day.'

Deputy Prime Minister Shrestha expressed his personal desire to declare 'International Meditation Day' globally through the United Nations, revealing that he proposed this idea to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres during his visit to Kathmandu after touring Lumbini. He urged the Secretary-General to consider meditation as a means to enhance peace and reduce crime.

Emphasizing the importance of Buddha's teachings in modern science, Shrestha stated that meditation has been proven beneficial in various fields. He informed the audience about the Ministry of Home Affairs' initiation of a meditation campaign, starting with 15 minutes of meditation in the ministry, and mentioned plans to introduce meditation techniques in prisons.

 

Referring to Buddha's emphasis on self-reflection, Deputy Prime Minister Shrestha stressed the need to implement Buddha's teachings for societal betterment. He expressed support for the publication of the Tripitaka to disseminate Buddha's knowledge and education, affirming the government's commitment to contribute to its publication.

The program featured speeches from dignitaries, including Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche, who focused on scientific reasoning related to Buddha's teachings. The event included the presence of Buddhist monks from India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar, and devotees from various districts of Nepal.

The chanting of the Tripitaka in Lumbini is a significant cultural and religious event, aiming to promote Lumbini as an international Buddhist pilgrimage site. The organizers are committed to spreading the teachings of Buddha globally through events like the Tripitaka reading.