In a heartwarming display of unity and compassion, spiritual leaders, luminaries, and diplomats from around the world gathered in New Delhi to mark the celebration of Mahakaruna Diwas (Great Compassion Day) 2024. Led by the esteemed Venerable Bhikkhu Sanghasena, the event aimed to share the timeless wisdom of Buddha and promote compassion for the betterment of all beings.
Jointly organized by the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre (MIMC) in Ladakh, the Mahakaruna Foundation in Delhi, and Adhyatm Sadhna Kendra, Delhi, the day witnessed a convergence of diverse religious leaders, including Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism. Ambassadors from various countries, scholars, educators, and peace activists also graced the occasion.
The program commenced with the lighting of a holy lamp by the spiritual masters present, followed by prayers for global peace, resonating with the chants of venerable monastics from Vietnam. Over 400 attendees, including Buddhist monastics from different countries such as Bhutan Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam, united with a common goal—to showcase the transformative power of compassion in a world grappling with various forms of suffering.
Ven. Bhikkhu Sanghasena, a prominent figure in socially engaged Buddhism, emphasized the need for collective efforts to propagate ancient Indian wisdom teachings and practices globally. His call to action included mahakaruna (Great Compassion), ahimsa, maitri, meditation, yoga, and the ethos of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (The World Is One Family).
Having founded the Mahabodhi International Meditation Center in Leh in 1986, Ven. Bhikkhu Sanghasena has been at the forefront of humanitarian initiatives, providing education, empowerment, healthcare, and refuge for various underprivileged groups. The MIMC, under his guidance, has evolved into a cultural and community hub in the region.
A highlight of the event was the conferring of Mahakaruna 2024 Awards for World Peace on more than 30 distinguished peace activists, educators, and mahakaruna advocates. The VBS Young Embodiment of Compassion in Education Awards 2024 were presented to students from Delhi schools, recognizing their commitment to compassion in action.
The celebration also marked the launch of the book titled Mahakaruna: A Holistic Movement for Global Peace through Compassion in Action, a collaborative effort by Dr. P. R. Trivedi and Ven. Bhikkhu Sanghasena. The MIMC expressed gratitude toward Chancellor Dr. P. R. Trivedi for his selfless contribution and hopes the book will become a textbook in various educational institutions.
Ven. Bhikkhu Sanghasena shared his vision for Mahakaruna as a transformative program addressing global challenges, from sectarianism and violence to poverty and environmental degradation. Through Mahakaruna Diwas, the aim is to raise awareness about the value of all life, promote gratitude, and demonstrate how compassion can profoundly benefit humanity and the planet.
As the event concluded, Ven. Bhikkhu Sanghasena humbly appealed for support, donations, and participation to manifest the dream of Universal Compassion in Action. The message resonates with the essence of Mahakaruna Diwas—bringing people together to create a world where compassion prevails over adversity.