Lumbini, December 26
A Buddhist communication journey was organized on Thursday from Bhairahawa to the birthplace of Buddha, Lumbini, under the slogan "Peace for Tourism, communication journey for Peace." The walk was conducted on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the Lumbini Press Club with the wish for world peace. The event commenced at Buddha Chowk in Bhairahawa, involving the Chief District Officer of Rupandehi, the Chief of Police, and representatives from various organizations.
According to Kamal Rayamajhi, the President of Lumbini Press Club, the 24-kilometer "Buddhist Communication Journey" was undertaken with 100 participants, emphasizing the relevance of Buddha's teachings on humanity and peace, as described in the Tripitaka. He explained that in a time when peace, compassion, and humanity are diminishing globally, the journey aimed to inspire positive energy in society through the efforts of journalists.
The team, which included journalists, was welcomed in Lumbini by Sanuraja Shakya, the Member Secretary of the Lumbini Development Trust. Shakya greeted the participants, including the Chief District Officer, by offering ceremonial scarves. The journey concluded with a brief program in Lumbini.
On the occasion, Rupandehi Chief District Officer Basudeva Ghimire remarked that the journey from Bhairahawa to the sacred birthplace of Buddha had generated positive energy. Although the 24-kilometer trek was physically tiring, he shared that it was mentally invigorating. "The walk not only brought positive energy but also helped promote the birthplace of Buddha, Lumbini," he said.
Similarly, Sanuraja Shakya from the Lumbini Development Trust highlighted that Buddha's life was spent traveling on foot after renouncing his household life. He expressed gratitude to the journalists for carrying forward that message through their walk. He added that the Buddhist Communication Journey had provided a positive message about Lumbini and peace.
Deepak Ghimire, Vice President and Program Coordinator of the Press Club, along with General Secretary Prakash Neupane and others, spoke at the event, noting that journalists, who usually carry notebooks, pens, and cameras for reporting, were now contributing to spiritual energy and tourism promotion from Lumbini. At the Maya Devi Temple, participants were guided in 10 minutes of meditation by monk Ven. Bajir. The participants were welcomed at various stops along the journey. The 100-member group included journalists, the Chief District Officer, security personnel, industrialists, businesspersons, tourism entrepreneurs, monks, lamas, community leaders, and rights activists. The walk ended at the Maya Devi Temple.