Kurukshetra University organised a one-day national seminar on “Yuganukool Paristhitiyan aur Bhagwan Gautam Buddha” on the occasion of the 2588th birth anniversary of Gautam Buddha on Wednesday. The seminar was organised by the university’s Dr BR Ambedkar Study Centre.
Presiding over the seminar, Kurukshetra University Vice-Chancellor Som Nath Sachdeva said Lord Buddha’s teachings have become even more relevant in today’s world as society faces challenges such as mental stress, moral decline and global imbalance. He said principles such as compassion, non-violence, truth and self-discipline continue to guide humanity.
Referring to Buddha’s concept of the “Middle Path”, he said a balanced life, free from extremes of indulgence and renunciation, is the true path to peace and harmony.
Sachdeva also highlighted the importance of self-reliance, particularly in the energy sector. He said India still depends heavily on other countries for crude oil and natural gas, and stressed the need to promote renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power along with indigenous technologies.
He added that self-reliance is closely linked to national security and long-term stability. Chief guest Bhante Dhammasheel said any religion promoting violence and hatred cannot be regarded as a true religion. True religion, he said, spreads peace, compassion and humanity.
Paying tribute to Lord Buddha’s teachings, he stressed the importance of following the five precepts — non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy and abstinence from intoxicants — to build a harmonious and peaceful society.
Keynote speaker Ranjan Tripathi said understanding Buddha means understanding oneself. He described Lord Buddha as an eternal symbol of human consciousness, compassion and truth. He said Buddha taught humanity that self-realisation and inner enlightenment are more important than material grandeur.
Kurukshetra University Registrar Virender Pal said Lord Buddha’s teachings are not only spiritually enriching but also essential for social harmony and the promotion of human values.
Director of the Dr BR Ambedkar Study Centre Pritam Singh highlighted the importance of such academic events in strengthening human values and intellectual awareness in society.
Research scholars Daksh and Rahuldeep also presented their papers during the seminar.
