Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 23: On the occasion of Buddha Purnima, the Department of Buddhist Studies, University of Jammu, in collaboration with INTACH Jammu Chapter and Haloti Gompa Welfare Society, Kishtwar, organised a one-day national seminar on “Relevance of Buddhism in the modern world”.
Suresh Kumar Gupta, Principal Secretary of the Department of Culture, was the chief guest for the inaugural session. He highlighted the relevance of Gautama Buddha’s teachings in today’s hectic professional lives, suggesting they can provide relief and guidance.
Earlier, Prof Shohab Inayat Malik, Head of Buddhist Studies Department, JU, delivered the inaugural address.
Prof Ram Nandan Singh was the keynote speaker of the inaugural session. He provided deep insights into how Buddhist principles can transform individual lives and societal structures in the modern world. Further, he also talked about the important teachings of the Buddha i.e. Four Noble Truths, Eightfold Path, Theory of Relativity, Brahamvihara, etc.
Distinguished speakers also addressed the audience. Dr Ajay Kumar Singh spoke about the importance of love, kindness, and friendliness in fostering peace and social harmony in the current global context. He also discussed the comparative aspects of Buddhism and Kashmir Shaivism. Lobzang Dechan, the special guest speaker, emphasized that we should follow Buddha’s teachings daily, not just on special occasions.
S M Sahani, Convenor of the INTACH Jammu Chapter, stressed the importance of conserving and promoting local heritage.
Dr Rajesh Sharma conducted the proceedings and the event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr Vivek Sharma.
After the opening session, more than fifteen research papers on various topics were presented by scholars from across India. Dr Ajay Singh and Des Raj chaired and co-chaired the session. The seminar was attended by more than a hundred participants, including scholars, practitioners, and members of the general public. The event highlighted the enduring wisdom of Buddhist teachings and their application in contemporary life, emphasizing mindfulness, compassion and ethical living.
Prominent among others who were present, included Desh Raj, President HGWS, Kishtwar; Dr Nishant Verma, Dr Chaman, Dr P P Singh, Dr Rohit Kumar, Dr Ekta Kumar and students, scholars of Deptt of Urdu and Buddhist Studies.
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