Buddha Purnima: Himachal CM Sukhu urges to adopt teachings of Lord Buddha in daily life

ANI May 12, 2025 173 views

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu celebrated Buddha Purnima by urging people to adopt Buddha’s teachings for a harmonious society. He highlighted the timeless relevance of Buddha’s message, especially in today’s stressful world. Sukhu also shared nostalgic memories of his connection with the Sambhota Tibetan School. The event included cultural performances and awards for India-Tibet friendship.

"Lord Buddha gave us the mantra 'Appa Deepo Bhava', which means 'Be your own light'." - CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
Shimla, May 12: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday participated in a programme organised on the occasion of Buddha Purnima at Sambhota Tibetan School in Shimla and appealed to all to imbibe the teachings of Lord Buddha in their lives to make a vibrant society.

Key Points

1

Sukhu emphasizes Buddha’s relevance in modern society

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Links teachings to self-reliance and harmony

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Shares childhood memories of Sambhota Tibetan School

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Felicitates India-Tibet Friendship Award recipients

Extending his greetings on the auspicious occasion of Vaishakh Purnima and Lord Buddha's birth anniversary, the Chief Minister said, "Lord Buddha gave us the mantra 'Appa Deepo Bhava', which means 'Be your own light'. This was the essence of self-reliance and continues to guide us in our journey towards building a self-reliant India."

He also said that Lord Buddha's teachings are as relevant today as they were in ancient times.

"In an age marked by violence, intolerance and distrust, Buddha's message offers a path of peace, compassion and tolerance. These were not mere teachings but a way of life," he added.

The Chief Minister said that Lord Buddha was born, attained enlightenment and achieved 'Mahaparinirvana' on this very day. This convergence of three great events makes this day sacred and deeply significant.

He said that Lord Buddha's life was a source of inspiration that teaches us compassion, peace and humanity.

"In today's world, where material pursuits often lead to stress and imbalance, Buddha's message shows us the path to peace, harmony and true happiness," he added.

Sharing a personal connection, the Chief Minister reminisced about his childhood memories associated with the school.

"I served as a Municipal Councillor in Shimla for 10 years. Many of my friends studied here and we often played cricket here during winter vacations," he shared.

On this occasion, the Chief Minister also felicitated Tshering Palkit Negi and Pema Dorjee with the India-Tibet Friendship Award. A vibrant cultural programme based on the traditions of Tibet, Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti was also presented.

MLA Harish Janartha, Mayor Surinder Chauhan, Deputy Mayor Uma Kaushal, Chief Representative of the Tibetan Government-in-Exile Lhakpa Tsering, Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

Reader Comments

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Rahul K.
Beautiful message by CM Sukhu! 🙏 Buddha's teachings of peace and self-reliance are exactly what our society needs today. In Himachal, we've always had a special connection with Buddhist culture through our Tibetan neighbors. More such initiatives please!
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Priya M.
While I appreciate the sentiment, I wish our leaders would practice what they preach. Buddha taught simplicity, but our politicians live lavish lifestyles. Still, good to see cultural programs being supported - the Tibet-Kinnaur-Lahaul performances must have been wonderful!
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Ankit S.
Himachal is truly blessed to have such rich Buddhist heritage. Been to Dharamshala many times and the peace there is unmatched. "Appa Deepo Bhava" is such a powerful message for today's youth - we need to depend on ourselves rather than waiting for government jobs!
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Neha T.
The India-Tibet Friendship Award is a nice gesture. Our Himalayan states share so much culturally with Tibet. But I wonder - shouldn't we be more careful about political implications given China's stance on Tibet? Maybe keep the spiritual and cultural aspects separate from politics.
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Sanjay R.
Buddha Purnima reminds me of my trip to Bodh Gaya last year. India is so lucky to be the land where Buddhism was born! CM's words are good, but I wish he'd announced some concrete plans - maybe meditation programs in schools or preserving more Buddhist heritage sites in HP.
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Kavita J.
Love how our Himalayan culture blends Hindu and Buddhist traditions seamlessly ❤️ The CM sharing his childhood memories with the school makes it so relatable. More leaders should connect with people through shared cultural experiences rather than just giving speeches!

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Buddha Purnima Himachal CM Sukhu Sambhota Tibetan School Buddhism Peace teachings