Chandigarh:A symposium on "Relevance of the Buddhist Idea of Peace in Contemporary Times" was held on March 24, 2025 at the Principal P.L. Anand Auditorium, Panjab University. The event featured distinguished speakers Dr. Pooja Dabral from Nalanda University, Prof. Kaveri Gill from Shiv Nadar University and Shri K.C. Singh, former diplomat and ambassador to UAE and Iran, who presided over the event as Chair. The symposium was organized under the H.H. The Dalai Lama Chair, drawing scholars, faculty and students to engage in a profound discussion on the enduring significance of Buddhist principles in addressing modern-day conflicts and fostering global harmony.
K.C. Singh expressed that we are currently at a very crucial juncture in history, as the liberal political order established after World War II is under significant strain. Initially, America did not support this liberal order, preferring more authoritarian government models. However, over time, certain liberal democratic frameworks were adopted. With Trump’s rise to power, he has openly disregarded this liberal democratic model, according to KC Singh. He pointed out that Trump has made provocative statements such as calling the Prime Minister of Canada the "governor" and referring to Canada as the "51st state." Furthermore, Trump expressed intentions to annex Greenland, reflecting a broader disregard for the norms of territorial integrity. Singh drew a parallel between Trump’s actions and China’s attempts to annex Tibet, suggesting that if the rules are broken by major powers, it opens the door for others to follow suit. This could lead to the annexation of smaller countries like Sri Lanka, the Maldives, or any other nations, which poses a significant threat to global peace and stability. He emphasized that if nations begin to act without regard for established international norms, there would be no end to such territorial expansion. KC Singh also addressed the importance of maintaining a hegemonic order to prevent further chaos, noting that the lack of a proper order after World War I was a key factor leading to World War II. He acknowledged that Germany’s rearming, although concerning, has a positive side in that it forces Europe to prioritize its own safety in light of the growing threat from Russia and Putin’s ambitions, such as taking over Poland. This brings the world to a critical point where finding a middle ground is increasingly difficult, with the risk of escalating tensions and conflicts across the globe.
The symposium commenced with a warm welcome address by Prof. Paru Bal Sidhu, Coordinator of the H.H. The Dalai Lama Chair, Panjab University. In her address, she emphasized that "as long as human society exists, there will be conflicts and disagreements; therefore, it is essential to understand that the only viable way to address these challenges is through dialogue." She further emphasised that Gautam Buddha should not be viewed merely as a historical figure but rather as a non-denominational symbol whose teachings transcend time.
Prof. Yojana Rawat, Director, Research and Development Cell, Panjab University, delivered a thoughtful address, underscoring the importance of connecting with our inner selves. She noted that while there are rare moments when we experience unity with reality, most of the time we remain preoccupied with our ambitions and daily routines. Prof. Rawat highlighted the growing culture of loneliness in today’s world, noting that moments of unity with reality are becoming increasingly rare due to our preoccupation with daily routines and ambitions. She called for the liberation of the self through introspection and mindful connection.
Prof. Kaveri Gill’s address focused on the geopolitical economies of Tibet and China, linking Buddhist philosophy to the broader global context. She also highlighted the significant role of Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence in shaping the Dalai Lama’s approach to peace. During his visit to India in 1956, the Dalai Lama was deeply influenced by Gandhi’s commitment to non-violence, and it became a cornerstone of his leadership. The Dalai Lama’s decision to reject violence in favour of peaceful resistance has since been a defining characteristic of the Tibetan struggle for autonomy. Prof. Gill noted that Tibetans have adhered to non-violent resistance since the Tibetan government formally renounced violence in 1974, offering a powerful example of how non-violent principles can guide political action. She also explored scholarly perspectives on the nature of violence, drawing from the work of philosophers like Hanna Arendt and Judith Butler. Arendt, in her 1970 reflections on violence, argued that violence cannot heal the wounds it inflicts and that revenge is not a solution to societal conflicts. Similarly, Judith Butler’s "Precarious Life" emphasized the fundamental interconnectedness of human beings, asserting that our shared vulnerability makes us reliant on others, regardless of whether we ever meet them. The speakers collectively agreed that violence leaves no winners, noting that the pain of loss is shared by all, especially the families affected by war. Prof. Kaveri Gill also shared the Dalai Lama's view on peace, stating that true peace is not merely the absence of violence but the presence of human compassion. Quoting Arya Nagarjuna, she said, "Inspired by great compassion, the Buddha taught the matrix of wisdom or Dharma to dispel all mistaken views." Prof. Gill further emphasized that the Dalai Lama highlights how Buddhist principles not only resonate with modern scientific thought but are also universally relevant, transcending cultural boundaries and offering a powerful blueprint for global peace.
Dr. Pooja Dabral described the concept of peace in Buddhism, emphasizing the idea that everyone has the right to achieve peace and happiness. This concept, deeply rooted in ancient wisdom, was first discussed over 2,600 years ago, stressing that not only do people desire happiness and peace, but they also have the fundamental right to attain them. She then raised an important question: does peace and happiness come solely from external conditions, or can they be cultivated within? Dr. Dabral explained that this is where ancient wisdom plays a crucial role. By cultivating inner peace, compassion, and mindfulness, individuals can take charge of their own happiness and well-being, regardless of external circumstances. She elaborated on the intersection of ancient wisdom and modern life, offering valuable insights into achieving peace and happiness. Dr. Dabral outlined several key practices to help individuals incorporate these teachings into their daily lives, including cultivating mindfulness by being fully present in the moment and letting go of attachments to past regrets or future anxieties, practicing compassion by extending kindness, empathy and understanding to others, thus fostering deeper human connections, and developing self-awareness by recognizing and understanding one’s thoughts, emotions and actions, making conscious decisions that contribute to inner peace. She emphasized how ancient wisdom can offer practical solutions to contemporary challenges, fostering dialogue and understanding across diverse communities. Additionally, the concept of Dependent Origination was introduced, highlighting the interconnectedness of all phenomena. Dependent origination explains how everything exists in dependence on other factors and mental perceptions. Dr. Dabral noted the different levels of dependent origination: Wholes and parts: Understanding how composite phenomena arise from their constituent parts. The most profound dependent origination: Recognizing that everything exists by dependence on mental perceptions and nothing exists independently. Dr. Dabral also shared the teachings of Aryana Karjuna, a renowned Buddhist master, who advised King Gautami Putra on cultivating peace of mind while governing the kingdom. She also shared that Aryana Karjuna emphasized the importance of balancing personal liberation with responsibilities toward others. She highlighted key principles of his guidance, including paying attention to the well-being of others, urging individuals to consider the needs of others just as they prioritize their own benefits. Dr. Dabral also mentioned how he advised putting oneself in others' shoes, reflecting on how one’s actions may impact others, and cultivating empathy to foster deeper, more compassionate connections.
K.C. Singh delivered his chair remarks and concluded the symposium by emphasizing the importance of finding a middle way. He reflected that pragmatism alone was insufficient and cited the Sikh tradition as a valuable example. He quoted that the Sikh gurus had embodied deep spirituality, but had also recognized the need for self-defense when faced with persecution. He also drew a parallel with the Arab Spring, noting that the pursuit of peace, justice, and human rights had to be balanced with the need for stability and security. Shri KC Singh urged the participants to carry the principles of Buddhist philosophy with them and strive to find a balance between compassion and wisdom, and idealism and pragmatism. Prof. Kumool Abbi, Department of Sociology proposed a vote of thanks and the event concluded with an interactive session, where participants reflected on the need for integrating Buddhist teachings into policy-making, education and social initiatives to create a more peaceful and sustainable future.
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