Jammu, 05.05.23: All India Confederation of SC/ST/OBC Organisations J&K observed Buddha Purnima today at Ambedkar Chowk, Jammu. People from all walks of life joined to pay their homage to Lord Buddha by lighting candles and showering flowers.
RK Kalsotra, State President Confederation, said that Dr. BR Ambedkar was a pioneer when it comes to the revival of Buddhism in India. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar saw Buddhism as a means of empowerment and annihilation of the caste system, which had oppressed the depressed and backward sects for centuries. He thought of transforming the social fabric of Indian society from Bahiskrit Bharat to Prabuddha Bharat. His tireless efforts towards creating a society that is free from discrimination and prejudice through the notion of a welfare state as envisioned in the directive principles of state policies within the Indian Constitution continue to inspire us all. This year let us honour his legacy and take a pledge by embracing the morals and values of the scientific and theological temperament of the Tathagata, which emphasize the importance of compassion, madhyam marga, and mindfulness.
He also added that these values should be inculcated in one’s daily life through “Atta deepo bhava” meaning ‘be a light unto yourself’. This is the righteous path to move on and look ahead for a brighter tomorrow for being and becoming a Vishwaguru. The influence of Buddhism can be seen in Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s drafting of the Indian Constitution to enable social justice for all.
A Kuldeep Singh Giani of Dalit OBC Minority (DOM) said that the teachings of Lord Buddha were accepted all across the globe as that was the level of acceptance of his values and his lessons. They were widely supported by people from different sects as well.
De Sameer Ch President National SC ST OBC Students & Youth Front(NSYF) said that Buddha became an inspiration for Dr BR Ambedkar for writing the Constitution of India and many such ideals were included in it like equality, brotherhood, among other virtues. He also added that Lord Buddha highlighted the importance of peace in the world and considering how things are in turmoil, such issues should be addressed through the teachings of Lord Buddha.
Arush Kalsotra added that there are increasing cases of violence today, be it on the basis of caste, creed, gender, or religion. Lord Buddha taught us that non-violence should be the way of life and thus, such teachings should be incorporated by all.
Shashi Syal, Mazdoor Dastkar Leader said that Buddhism is one such religion that promotes prosperity and progressiveness. It also focuses on the importance of self and mind and not on rituals that promote hierarchy in society. Thus, the message of ‘apna depak Khud Bano’ becomes an important one in today’s time.
Other prominent who present included Mohinder Kumar, Dr Azhar Rathar, Tilak Raj, Er Sham Bassan, Mridul & many others