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India Gazette
16 hours ago
- General
- India Gazette
Scholars, researchers unite to discuss relevance of Buddha Dharma in 21st century
Dharamshala (Himachal Pradesh) [India], July 14 (ANI): Buddhist scholars, researchers, practitioners, and eminent spiritual leaders who had closely interacted with the 14th Dalai Lama, over several years, including the supreme hierarchy of international and national Buddhist Monks on Sunday discussed three pertinent subjects that 14th Dalai Lama had been concerned with these past years at an International Conference organised by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in commemoration of the 90th birth anniversary of the 14th Dalai Lama. The topics were 'Relevance of Buddha Dharma in the 21st Century', 'Quantum Physics, Neurosciences and Buddhism and on the 'Future of Tibetan Buddhism and the Preservation of its Culture.' Alexander Berzin from Harvard University in Far Eastern Languages, Sanskrit and Indian Studies said the 14th Dalai Lama considered three themes most relevant for the 21st century- the oneness of humanity, bodhichitta and the view of emptiness being the main focuses of his daily practice, and his great commitments. These are, firstly, promoting secular ethics and universal values and introducing their teaching into the modern school systems. Second is the preservation of Tibetan culture, language and environment. Promoting religious harmony is the third, and the fourth is the integration of the ancient Indian teachings on the mind into the curricula of the schools in India. Lobsang Tenzin Negi, the Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Centre for Contemplative Science and Compassion-Based Ethics at Emory University, explored the continued relevance of the Dalai Lama's core spiritual teachings, particularly compassion, mindfulness, and ethical responsibility, especially relevant in today's complex and fast-changing world. He noted that the Dalai Lama had been a pioneering force in bridging science and spirituality, actively engaging with world-renowned scientists and help giving rise to the field of contemplative science, especially the study of compassion. 'His vision and calls to action have directly inspired impactful global programs like SEE Learning and CBCT, which integrate secular ethics and emotional well-being into education and society. Together, these contributions offer a timeless and practical framework, and vital tools, for cultivating empathy, resilience, and a sense of universal responsibility in the 21st century,' explained. Professor Ceon Ramon, Affiliate Professor, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Washington, US, speaking on Quantum Physics, Neurosciences and Buddhism, explained these concepts with examples with the aim to demonstrate the similarities and differences between scientific theories and Buddhist philosophy. Another area of interaction is the combination of quantum and superluminal (faster than light) physics with Buddhist philosophy. He said that with this, one can explain the Buddhist concept of the luminous nature of the mind, which helps to describe the spontaneous transfer of information between two events that are separated in space. Associate Professor Edi Ramawijaya Putra, Sriwijaya State Buddhist College of Tangerang Banten, Indonesia, said the Dalai Lama was concerned about the lack of individual responsibility toward social and global welfare. This deliberately violates the ultimate goal of education itself. Therefore, learners must accentuate themselves that their presence in this world is not merely about individual purpose, but also for the benfits of other being, he explained. Educational stakeholders, including policy-makers worldwide, must start reimagining the curricula that provide more on 'educating the heart' not only 'education the mind'. More importantly, designing outcomes that equips learners' resilience as an equalizer of life through the voltailities, uncertainities, complexities and biases, Prof. Putra mentioned. Kate Saunders, Co-Founder of Turquoise Roof research network and Tibet Watch, London, UK, said Tibetan Buddhism was standing at a critical crossroads, the future will determine not only the preservation of Tibet's ancient spiritual traditions but also the continuity of its cultural identity under unprecedented Chinese control strategies. This presentation examined how China's systematic campaign to eliminate the Dalai Lama's influence extended far beyond Tibet's borders, employing what Beijing characterises as a 'protracted war' to control religious succession while simultaneously promoting 'unyielding Marxist atheism.' The analysis was based on new research revealing the international dimensions of China's reincarnation politics, demonstrating how Beijing's multi-dimensional approach threatens traditional Tibetan governance structures that uniquely interweave religious and political authority based on the belief that leaders are enlightened beings who choose reincarnation to serve humanity. 'At this pivotal moment of global instability, the preservation of Tibetan Buddhism represents more than cultural survival; it embodies a vital force offering practical guidance on compassionate education systems, ethical leadership, and sustainable resilience, providing alternative frameworks that humanity desperately needs to navigate an increasingly fractured world order where pluralism faces systematic assault from transnational authoritarian networks,' she concluded. A special message to IBC by Dalai Lama was read out by Most Venerable Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche, the Guest of Honour at the event. At the event, the Special Guest was Most Ven. Phrarat Vajarasuttiwong Dhammalongkornvibhusit Arayawangso, of Thailand, the Keynote Speaker was Dalai Lama, the 43rd Sakya Trizin Gyana Vajra Rinpoche of Dehradun, India, and the concluding remarks were by Most Ven. Nicholas Vreeland of the USA. In a declaration at the end of a day-long conference in New Delhi on three pertinent subjects close to Dalai Lama's heart: The 'Relevance of Buddha Dharma in the 21st Century', the 'Future of Tibetan Buddhism and the Preservation of its Culture,' and 'Quantum Physics, Neurosciences and Buddhism,' more than 500 participants, both nationals and from around the world unanimously supported the public statement. The key message read that 'from the highlands of Tibet to the farthest corners of the world, the Dalai Lama's teachings had transcended borders and beliefs. Inspiring millions to walk the path of non-violence, harmony, and inner awakening as the revered manifestation of Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion, the Dalai Lama has upheld and revitalised the precious traditions of Tibetan Buddhism, while also emerging as a global voice of conscience in contemporary times. It further stated that the Dalai Lama 'has consistently championed the preservation of rich Tibetan culture and religious freedom, guiding his people with unwavering resolve.' His recent statement announcing the continuation of his reincarnation, and only by Tibetan people without any foreign interference, is a testament to preserving its culture and heritage, as mentioned in the Declaration. (ANI)
Hindustan Times
a day ago
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Accepting shared humanity key to peaceful resolution of most intractable conflicts: Dalai Lama
New Delhi, Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama said sufferings caused by war sadden him, and asked people to see even their "so-called enemies" as human beings, as such compassion can peacefully resolve even the most intractable conflicts. Accepting shared humanity key to peaceful resolution of most intractable conflicts: Dalai Lama The 14th Dalai Lama, who turned 90 on July 6, said this in a written message which was read out by a venerable monk from Dharamshala, at a commemorative event held here on Sunday. Scholars, researchers and eminent spiritual leaders from India and various other parts of the world gathered here for a day-long conference to mark the 90th birth anniversary of the 14th Dalai Lama, during which the relevance of Buddha Dharma and the relationship between traditional practices and scientific evidence were among the subjects of discussion. A film celebrating the legacy of the 14th Dalai Lama was screened, while a special temporary exhibition of photographs, including rare black and white photos of his childhood, his meeting with first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and the then President Rajendra Prasad in 1950s, and other milestone occasions of his life, was put up in the venue hall. An exhibition on the life of Buddha and various sites associated with him was also hosted at the venue. At the opening session of the conference hosted by the International Buddhist Confederation , a written message dated July 8 for the event was read out by Ven. Samdhong Rinpoche. "As a simple Buddhist monk, I do not generally pay much attention to birthday celebrations. However, since you are taking this as an opportunity to highlight the importance of compassion, warm-heartedness and altruism in our world, I would like to express my appreciation," the Dalai Lama said. It is now more than 66 years since a large number of Tibetans, including himself, managed to flee to India following the "Chinese Communist invasion of Tibet," he said in his message. The Tibetan spiritual leader said that since then, he has enjoyed the "freedom and opportunity to continue" his studies of ancient Indian wisdom. "I feel a special closeness to this country," the Dalai Lama said. He emphasised that if aspects of India's ancient wisdom, of which the Buddha's teachings are a part, are combined with modern education, they can make a beneficial contribution to "greater peace and happiness" in the world. "I pray fervently for greater peace and understanding in our world. It saddens me to see so many people suffering as a result of war," the Tibetan spiritual leader said. His remarks come against the backdrop of many ongoing conflicts in different parts of the world. "If we were to accept our shared humanity, recognising that even those we think of as so-called enemies are also human beings, I truly believe we could find a peaceful resolution to even the most intractable conflicts. But to do so requires a willingness to enter into dialogue and negotiation," he underlined. "Therefore, I pray that concerted efforts will be made to create a peaceful, more compassionate world free from violence," said the 14th Dalai Lama, revered by Buddhist followers across the world. At the present time, there is "growing interest in Buddhism among Chinese people", including those from mainland China, which is part of their "cultural inheritance", he added. Scientists, too, are interested in knowing more about Buddhist philosophy and the Buddhist explanation of the workings of the mind and emotions, the Dalai Lama said. In his message, he also conveyed that the Tibetans are "deeply indebted" to the government and people of India for the "warm hospitality they have shown us since 1959". "In conclusion, I feel my life has been of some benefit to people across the world, and I dedicate the rest of my time to the service of others," the Dalai Lama said. The conference held at the Ashoka Hotel was also attended by the supreme hierarchy of international and national Buddhist monks, including those from Thailand, Malaysia and other Buddhist countries. Buddhist scholars from the US, Indonesia, and the UK also took part in the event. The conference was held days after the 90th birth anniversary of the 14th Dalai Lama was celebrated on July 6 in Himachal Pradesh's Dharamshala. "His Holiness is a great student of Buddha, and he is a living Buddha. On his 90th birthday anniversary, I can only say, he creates love and spreads it with humility," Noida-based Buddhist practitioner Shantum Seth told PTI on the sidelines of the conference. Seth, who has embraced the Buddhist ethos for the past nearly four decades, and done 'pilgrimage walks' for groups of people belonging to different walks of life, emphasised the value of mindfulness in the age of shrinking attention spans and a growing materialistic lifestyle. Many scholars emphasised the growing influence of China in the region and its uneasy past with the Tibetans and their homeland. At the end of the conference, a declaration was announced that prayed for his health, and made a reference to his recent announcement on the succession plan for the Dalai Lama. His announcement is a "testament" to the preservation of Tibetan Buddhism and the culture, the declaration says. Ahead of his 90th birth anniversary, the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, had affirmed that the institution of the Dalai Lama will continue and that only the Gaden Phodrang Trust will have the sole authority to recognise his future "reincarnation", declaring no one else can "interfere" in his succession plan. This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
Hindustan Times
3 days ago
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
IBC to host conference on Sunday to mark 90th birth anniversary of 14th Dalai Lama
New Delhi, Scholars, researchers and eminent spiritual leaders will gather in Delhi on Sunday for a day-long conference in commemoration of the 90th birth anniversary of the 14th Dalai Lama during which relevance of Buddha Dharma and relationship between traditional practices and scientific evidence will be among subjects of discussion. IBC to host conference on Sunday to mark 90th birth anniversary of 14th Dalai Lama The conference will be hosted by the International Buddhist Confederation . The conference to be held at Ashoka Hotel here will also be attended by the supreme hierarchy of international and national Buddhist monks, according a statement issued by the organisers. "In commemoration of the 90th birth anniversary of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, IBC, is organising a day-long conference of Buddhist scholars, researchers, practitioners and eminent spiritual leaders who have closely interacted with His Holiness over several years to deliberate on some of the profound questions and find answers in the knowledge, wisdom and experience of His Holiness," it said. The 90th birth anniversary of the 14th Dalai Lama was celebrated on July 6 in Himachal Pradesh's Dharamshala. "A devout practitioner of Buddha Dharma, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama is a symbol of global peace, underscoring the primacy of inner transformation. According to his teachings, true spirituality is encapsulated in an ethical way of life one rooted in doing good, refraining from harm, and cultivating wisdom," the statement said. To elaborate on his views, the discussions during the conference will include subjects such as 'Relevance of Buddha Dharma in the 21st Century' and 'Future of Tibetan Buddhism and the Preservation of its Culture'. To further the conversation on Buddhist wisdom, philosophy and modern science, the subject of 'Quantum Physics, Neurosciences and Buddhism' establishing a relationship between traditional practices and scientific evidence will also form part of the discussions, it said. The panelists will include Most Venerable Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche, an eminent and distinguished scholar, teacher and philosopher, former Prime Minister of the Central Tibetan Administration, and a key advisor and confidant to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the statement said. Most Ven. Phrarat Vajarasuttiwong Dhammalongkornvibhusit Arayawangso of Thailand, an internationally respected Thai Buddhist monk and senior member of Thailand's Supreme Sangha Council will also attend the conference among others, the IBC said. This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
Qatar Tribune
05-07-2025
- Politics
- Qatar Tribune
On eve of 90th birthday, spiritual leader Dalai Lama says he hopes to live another 40 years
The Dalai Lama has said that he hopes to live for another 40 years until he is 130 years old, on the eve of his 90th birthday, days after he sought to assuage rife speculation over his succession by saying he would reincarnate upon his death. The Tibetan Buddhist spiritual leader was speaking on Saturday during a ceremony organised by his followers to offer prayers for his long life, ahead of his 90th birthday on Sunday. Leading thousands in the prayers as the sound of chanting, drums and horns rang out, he said: 'So far, I have done my best and with the continued blessings of Avalokiteshvara [a Buddhist spiritual protector], I hope to live another 30 or 40 years, continuing to serve sentient beings and the Buddha Dharma', he said, referring to the teachings of the Buddha. The Dalai Lama previously told the Reuters news agency in December that he might live to 110. The Dalai Lama has confirmed that he will have a successor chosen in accordance with 'past tradition', ending years of speculation about the centuries-old office. In a video message on Wednesday, he said the Gaden Phodrang Foundation, which he established to preserve the institution, will have the power to recognise his future reincarnation. Tibetan Buddhist leaders will search for his successor, he added, stressing that 'no one else has any such authority to interfere in this matter'. The 14th Dalai Lama said he had received many messages in recent years from Buddhists calling for the office's continuation. (Agencies)
Time of India
05-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
In zest or jest? Will live for 130 years, perhaps more, Dalai Lama tells followers
Dalai Lama (AP photo) DHARAMSHALA: A day before his 90th birthday and amid talks of succession, Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama Saturday said he hoped to live beyond 130 years. Addressing devotees during a long-life prayer ceremony held by Central Tibetan Administration at main Tibetan temple in McLeodganj, he said, "So far, I believe I have served Buddha Dharma and the Tibetan people quite well. .. I hope to live for another 30 or 40 years - even over 130." The Tibetan spiritual master - known for his scientific temperament - has often laughed off in his trademark humour any talk about his years on Earth, each time giving different figures. In Dec 2024, he had said he might live for 110 years or more. Five years before that, he assured his followers he would live beyond 113 years. CTA president Penpa Tsering told TOI, "It is very difficult to interpret what His Holiness says... We believe every word he speaks."
