Lumbini : The third edition of the Lumbini International Peace Festival commenced on Thursday in Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, bringing together international participants to promote peace, spirituality, and global harmony.
Jointly organized by the Nepal Tourism Board and the Embassy of China in Nepal, the three-day festival was inaugurated by Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Anil Kumar Sinha.
Addressing the opening ceremony, Minister Sinha underscored the growing relevance of Buddha’s teachings in a world increasingly marked by conflict and instability.
“In today’s turbulent global environment, the message of compassion, non-violence, and coexistence taught by Lord Buddha is more important than ever,” he said.
He added that Lumbini is once again reaffirming its role as a global spiritual hub, with participation from diverse countries transforming the site into a truly international platform.
“Nepal seeks to further strengthen its identity as a center for spiritual tourism while deepening cooperation with the global community,” noted the Tourism Minister.
Similarly, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Zhang Maoming, highlighted that peace has become a fundamental aspiration for humanity amid rising geopolitical tensions and uncertainties.
He reiterated China’s commitment to peaceful development and collaboration with peace-loving nations worldwide.
Emphasizing the deep-rooted cultural and spiritual ties between Nepal and China, Ambassador Zhang described Lumbini as a global symbol of peace.
“I am confident that this festival will further strengthen the historic friendship and Buddhist connections between our two countries,” mentioned the Chinese Ambassador.
Likewise, Chairperson of the Nepal Olympic Committee, Jeevan Ram Shrestha, described Lumbini as a shared heritage of all humanity, from where the universal message of peace and coexistence has spread across the world.
He said the festival aims to promote these values through sports, including the organization of an international peace marathon.
“Sports can serve as a powerful medium for peace and development, spreading messages of unity, non-violence, and brotherhood across the global community,” opined Chairperson Shrestha.
Delivering the welcome remarks, Vice Chairperson of the Lumbini Development Trust, Larkel Lama, emphasized that Buddha’s teachings are meant to be practiced rather than merely believed.
He highlighted meditation and spiritual discipline as pathways to achieving true peace and described Lumbini as an open spiritual destination for all humanity.
“Lumbini is not just for Buddhists, but for anyone seeking peace and harmony. The experience here has the power to transform ordinary life into a spiritual journey,” underlined Vice-Chair Lama.
As part of the festival, a special meditation session will be held on Friday at the Maya Devi Temple premises, followed by an international peace marathon on Saturday. The event also features cultural performances, spiritual discourses, and interactive programs.
According to Surya Thapaliya, Senior Manager at the Nepal Tourism Board, the festival—organized in collaboration with the Lumbini Development Trust, Nepal Olympic Committee, and other stakeholders—is expected to further position Lumbini as a global center for peace and spiritual tourism.
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