President Patil Dedicates Buddha Vihar to the Nation

 

 

 

 

 

 

President Prathiba Devisingh Patil declared open the Buddha Vihar, built on sprawling 75 acres of land by Siddarth Vihar Trust, Gulbarga on 07/01/09.

 

Governor Rameshwar Thakur, chief minister B S Yeddyurappa, former CM N Dharam Singh and a large crowd of people attended the inaugural function.

Speaking on the occasion, Patil highlighted the need for a strategy which will adhere to the policy of inclusive growth and ensure country's progress. "This model of inclusive growth will improve the lives of all citizens, particularly the scheduled castes and scheduled tribes and the disadvantaged sections of the society," she added.

Calling upon the leaders to work for the upliftment of the vulnerable sections of the society, the President said: "The battle against poverty, illiteracy and disease must be fought and won. Delivering social welfare and social justice to people will be a great tribute to Babasaheb Ambdekar who followed Buddha and his principles in his life."

Referring to Buddhism and Buddha, she said Buddhism is acting as a strong bond between India and other countries where Buddhism is in practice. "The strength of Buddhism lies in its middle-path approach to all the problems dogging the society. Advocating avoidance of extremes, the middle path calls for approaching the issues in a moderate and balanced manner," she said, adding the middle path is good for both people and the country.

Recalling the `sangha' philosophy of Buddha, she said `sanghas' were run on democratic principles and this has become the basic tenet of India's democracy. "The ethos of democracy __ to respect diverse views and tolerance __ are part of the Indian civilization since ancient times," she said.

Earlier in his address, chief minister Yeddyurappa said the society, which is threatened by cross-border terrorism, should seek solace from Buddha's principles which taught tolerance and peace. "Our government will help Siddarth Vihar Trust in making Buddha Vihar to be the epicentre of Buddhism and creativity," he said.

Opposition leader Mallikarjun Kharge said Buddha Vihar will help create awareness among the people about various social and other issues through the sayings of Buddha.