08.03.2024 : Hon’ble Governor inaugurated seminar on “Buddhist Traditions :History, Philosophy and Practice” at NIT, Deorali, Gangtok.

SKM/GOV/PR/2024/67

The Hon’ble Governor of Sikkim, Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya, inaugurated a one-day seminar on “Buddhist Traditions: History, Philosophy, and Practice” at the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology (NIT), Deorali, Gangtok. This seminar is a collaborative effort between the Department of Buddhist and Tibetan Studies at NIT and the Buddhist Studies Department of Sikkim University.

The event commenced with the traditional lighting of butter lamps by the Hon’ble Governor of Sikkim, who also serves as the President of the NIT Board.

The Hon’ble Governor, in his address, underscored the profound teachings of Lord Buddha, emphasizing the significance of his teachings as the reflection of the everyday life of the Sikkimese people. He cited instances of exemplary behaviour and self-discipline as well. The Hon’ble Governor highlighted Sikkim’s commitment to fostering a harmonious and tranquil society, echoing the essence of Buddha’s teachings.

Building on insights from his meeting with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the Hon’ble Governor recalled a moment when His Holiness, in his words of blessings, repeatedly spoke about peace, peace, and peace. Inspired by this, the Hon’ble Governor expressed a strong note that the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology (NIT), owing to its connection with the birthplace of Buddha, would evolve into a global centre committed to disseminating the principles of peace. The Hon’ble Governor’s visionary outlook positioned NIT as a bridge for fostering global harmony, aligning with the enduring principles advocated by Buddha himself.

The keynote speaker, Professor Sanjeev Kumar Das from the Indo-Tibetan Buddhist Studies at Visva Bharati Shantiniketan, West Bengal, presented Buddhism as not just a religion but a science of the mind. He emphasized the continuity of seminars throughout ancient times and stressed the importance of perpetuating Buddha’s teachings of non-violence and nirvana.
The seminar was graced by distinguished guests and representatives from various academic institutions and government departments. Notable in attendance were Ven Khenpo Sangay Palsang, Principal of Martam Shada, and Dr. Sonam Palden, Principal of Shreda. Shri Kirtar Sherpa, Director of the Ecclesiastical Department, Dr Yodila Bhutia from the Education Department of Sikkim University, Shri Karma Sonam Bhutia from Kanchendzonga State University, and Dr Sangmo Thendup from the History Department of Sikkim University, along with other officials from the state government, added their presence to the event.

Also present were students from institutions such as Sikkim Government College Burtuk, Sikkim Government Law College, Sowa Rigpa, Pangthang Sheda Sikkim Institute of Higher Nyingma Studies, Nar Bahadur Bandari Government College, and the History Department of Sikkim University, including those pursuing MA in Buddhist and Tibetan Studies.