Unity Between Sanatan Dharma and Buddhism Emphasised at Prayagraj Maha Kumbh Gathering

A powerful message of unity between Sanatan Dharma and Buddhism emerged from the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh. Monks, lamas, Buddhist bhikshus, and Sanatan religious leaders from various countries gathered to promote harmony. Three key resolutions were adopted: ending minority persecution in Bangladesh and Pakistan, supporting Tibet's autonomy, and reinforcing Sanatan-Buddhist unity. The event highlighted shared spiritual goals and heritage.

Procession and Spiritual Unity

Buddhist monks led a grand procession, chanting "Buddham Sharanam Gacchami," to spread Buddhism's essence. The procession ended at Juna Akhara's Prabhu Premi camp, where Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Avdheshanand Giri warmly welcomed them. The gathering underscored the importance of cooperation between the two traditions. Former RSS sarkaryavah Bhaiyyaji Joshi emphasised that the Maha Kumbh should be globally recognised for its unity message.

Global Recognition and Leadership

Joshi explained that the event symbolises diverse traditions coming together, like the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati at Sangam. He noted that true leadership unites humanity's strength, which India possesses. Joshi urged people to visit the Maha Kumbh to witness India's unified society. Exiled Tibetan defence minister Gyari Dolma called the event historic for fostering closeness between Sanatan Dharma and Buddhism.

Shared Purpose and Peace

Dolma highlighted that Buddhism's various sects united at this gathering, creating a shared sense of purpose. She expressed joy at seeing monks and lamas walking side by side, affirming their continued unity. Bhante Nag Vansha from Myanmar emphasised deep similarities between Buddhism and Sanatan Dharma, focusing on world peace. He wished for India's prosperity and thanked its government for supporting Buddhist initiatives.

Bhante Sheel Ratan from the International Buddhist Research Institute stated that followers of the Sanatan path who engage in righteous deeds never suffer. He believed India would re-emerge as a spiritual leader globally. RSS national executive member Indresh Kumar echoed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's sentiment that India offers Buddha's wisdom instead of war.

Vision for a United India

Kumar envisioned a united India leading to a world free from war, caste discrimination, and poverty. He hoped the Maha Kumbh resolutions would shape a new India based on peace and equality. The call for unity resonated during the grand procession of Buddhist monks from various countries. Chants like "May Lord Buddha's compassion prevail" filled Sector 17 as they marched through the fairground.

The procession aimed to reinforce that Sanatan Dharma and Buddhism have always been united. Kumar addressed the gathering, highlighting national and international cooperation between Sanatan Dharma and Buddhism as essential for guiding the world towards righteousness. The event saw participation from Buddhist monks, bhantes, and lamas representing traditions from Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Tibet, Japan, Korea, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam.

Notable attendees included Bhante Buddha Priya Vishva, Bhante Rajkumar Shravasti, Bhante Avashvajeet Pratapgarh, Bhikshuni Sumenta, Bhante Anuruddha Kanpur, Bhante Sanghpriya Rewa Madhya Pradesh, Bhante Bodhi Rakshit, Bhante Dhamma Deep Auraiya, Bhante Bodhi Ratan Mainpuri, and Bhante Sangh Ratan.

The gathering concluded with a strong emphasis on unity between Sanatan Dharma and Buddhism. Participants expressed hope for a future where these traditions continue to work together for global peace and understanding.