Buddhist leaders, HWPL advocate for global harmony

Bangla Press Desk:  In a strategic move to bolster regional stability and promote spiritual cooperation, prominent Bangladeshi Buddhist leaders have joined forces with the international peace organisation HWPL (Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light) for a specialised virtual forum titled “Inner Peace and Social & Religious Harmony in Buddhism.”

The session, held online on Wednesday, brought together approximately 20 key stakeholders, including senior monastics and peace advocates, to bridge the gap between ancient Buddhist tenets and modern-day conflict resolution. 

Bangladesh is a country where approximately 90% of the population practices Islam, and freedom of religion is constitutionally guaranteed. Nevertheless, incidents of violence and discrimination against minority religious communities have been reported intermittently, according to a press release.

Buddhist communities, particularly among indigenous ethnic groups, have played an important role in preserving local culture and identity. In this context, the importance of continued dialogue and mutual understanding among religions has been increasingly emphasised. 

The event provided a platform for learning and dialogue, encouraging participants to view other religions not as adversaries, but as subjects of understanding, in line with Buddhism’s principles of compassion and non-violence.

The session began with an introduction to HWPL, followed by presentations from five speakers. The first presentation was delivered by Karunananda Thera, Chief Abbot of the Gazipur Universal Buddhist Monastery.

Karunananda Thera explained the concept of true peace according to Buddhist scriptures, stating, “Peace in Buddhism does not begin with changing the world, but with liberating the mind by letting go of greed and anger.”

Jewel Rana Barua, who participated in the International Religious Peace Academy (IRPA), shared his personal experience and emphasised that interreligious dialogue does not weaken one’s faith, but rather deepens understanding.

IRPA is a programme of HWPL designed to help religious leaders understand different religions through open dialogue. It aims to foster a culture of mutual respect and contribute to the reduction of interreligious conflict.

Bhutan Barua, a Bangladeshi university student, and Ashoke Barua, a civil society leader who participated in the event, expressed their commitment to continue engaging in citizen-driven peace initiatives that transcend religious boundaries, guided by Buddhism’s principles of peace.Source: daily Sun

BP/SP