CM Mohan Yadav takes part in the 9th International Buddhist Festival and conveys a message of global peace.
CM Mohan Yadav expressed that the world today should embrace the teachings of Buddha rather than engage in war. He highlighted that the path of Lord Buddha is the route to global peace, guiding us towards inner peace, compassion, love, harmony, and universal brotherhood. Emphasizing the significance of adopting Buddha’s principles, the Chief Minister stated that his message is the most potent tool for fostering peace and harmony worldwide.
Dr. Yadav spoke at the 9th International Buddhist Festival on Sunday at Chuna Bhatti, Bhopal. During the event, he presented the “International Buddha Peace Award” to distinguished guests and also launched a commemorative publication dedicated to the festival. Commending the organizers, the Chief Minister noted that such religious festivals play a vital role in spreading the message of brotherhood and social harmony. The festival saw participation from Buddhist scholars and followers both from India and abroad. The main goal of the event was to promote Buddhist philosophy and work towards establishing global peace through it.
Dr. Yadav emphasized that Buddha’s teachings are the most effective way to foster harmony in society, and the government is moving forward in this direction. He assured the Buddhist community that the land at Chuna Bhatti would be designated as a permanent Buddhist site. He further stated, “We are all united and will work together to develop this sacred Buddhist land.”
The Chief Minister further said that his government has always respected Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has developed Dr. Ambedkar’s birthplace, educational institutions, site of his initiation, Chaitya Bhoomi, and Mahaparinirvan Bhoomi as the “Five Great Memorials” (Panch Teerth). He added that the state government is progressing toward building an egalitarian society by following the path of peace shown by Mahatma Buddha and Dr. Ambedkar. In the cabinet meeting held on January 24, the government approved Rs. 25 crore for starting the Law Faculty at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University in Mhow. The Buddhist Studies University in Sanchi will also be upgraded to meet international standards, with additional resources and facilities.
CM Dr. Yadav presented the 2025 International Buddha Peace Awards to several distinguished individuals. The recipients included Dr. Sagar Joshi from Mumbai, Dr. Ponchai Pinyapong from Thailand, Mr. Jaxana from Bodh Gaya (Laos), Dr. Thich Giac Lam from Vietnam, Dr. Mithila Chaudhary from Thailand, Mr. Sanjay Ganveer, Ms. Rashmi Pandey, Mr. Vijay Khatrakar, Mr. Gaurav Kathane, and Mr. Rajendra Prasad, among others. The Chief Minister congratulated the awardees and wished them well. The event also recognized other individuals for their contributions to art, culture, and literature.
The event was attended by local MLA Mr. Bhagwandas Sabnani, BJP state official Mr. Rahul Kothari, Chairman of Bhopal Municipal Corporation Mr. Kishan Suryavanshi, Bhante Shakyaputra Sagar Thero, office-bearers of Dhammadut Sangh, members of the Buddhist Land Mahavihar Monastery, community representatives, and a large gathering of local citizens.