NAGPUR: Mr. Jigme Tsultrim, Co-coordinator of India-Tibet Coordination Office (ITCO) based in New Delhi, attended the Antarrashtriya Bodh Dhamma Shanti Parishad function in Nagpur to celebrate the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. B. R Ambedkar on 22 October.
The anniversary function was held at Dragon Palace located about 20 kms away from the main city.
Monks from Japan, Netherland, Srilanka, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Taiwan, India including Ven.Shingoi Imai, Ven.Olanade Ananda Thero, Ven.Mahindawansa Thero, Ven.Thich Nhat Tu, Ven.Varsambodhi, Ven.Bhikkuni Yijih Shih and Ven.Arya Nagarajuna Surai Sasai attended the event.
Other dignitaries included Shri.Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister, Maharashtra Government and Shri.Nitin Gatkari, Union Minister, Government of India, Shri.Ramdasji Athwale, MP Rajya Sabha and Princess of Thailand, Ms.Luang Rajadarasiri Jayankura.
The event honored the achievements and contributions of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar towards the parallel growth of Indian Society. It was also an occasion to remember his untiring struggle towards the existing social discrimination in India and its salvation through Buddhism. It was recalled that as Buddha has taught, the message of peace, compassion and coexistence towards all sentient beings, similarly all the indigenous people must incorporate their values in our daily lives.
Nagpur being a stronghold of Indian Buddhist Community, hundreds of thousands of people have turned out to listen to the dignitaries with great enthusiasm and expectation.
Taking this opportunity, Mr. Jigme Tsultrim spoke at the gathering on the Tibet issue. He underlined current critical situation inside Tibet and urged the people gathered to extend their support for Tibet’s cause.
Following the function, National Campaign for Free Tibet Support, Wardha and Indo-Tibetan Friendship Society, Nagpur jointly organised the annual stall at Deekshabhumi informing the public about the political and human rights situation inside Tibet.
It is estimated that around 400,000 people gathered this time to show their respect and gratitude towards Dr.Ambedkar who have given them a new meaning of life within their own parameters. Pamphlets on Tibet in Marathi and Hindi languages and free water packages were distributed. Documentary films were screened and short talks were arranged throughout the day.
