Buddha Purnima was celebrated by the Department of Buddhist Studies, University of Jammu, in collaboration with the University of Life, presenting a powerful counter-narrative to war, hatred, and division.

A gentle saffron glow filled the seminar hall of the Department of Buddhist Studies this morning. Outside, however, the world remained in turmoil. As missiles persistently fly over the plains of Eastern Europe and smoke continues to rise from flashpoints across West Asia, a small yet determined gathering of scholars, students, and spiritual seekers assembled in this quiet corner of Jammu to undertake something deeply traditional yet profoundly significant — the celebration of Buddha Purnima. Through this observance, they conveyed, quietly but unmistakably, that another way of being human remains possible.

In an age marked by drone warfare, cyber-attacks, and escalating conflict rhetoric, the ancient teachings of the Buddha — non-violence, loving-kindness, and the Middle Path — may seem like a whisper in a storm. Buddha Purnima, also known as Vesakha or Buddha Jayanti, is observed on the full-moon day of the lunar month of Vesakha, which this year fell on May 1. For millions of Buddhists worldwide, the day commemorates three pivotal events in the life of Gautama Buddha: his birth, his enlightenment (Nirvāna), and his final passing (Mahaparinirvāna). This convergence symbolises the potential of human beings to awaken to the deepest truths of existence, live with boundless compassion, and transcend the cycle of birth and death.

The Department of Buddhist Studies chose to honour this triple significance through a programme that was not merely ritualistic but deeply reflective. From the traditional lighting of the lamp to the recitation of Pali prayers, each act was framed as a form of moral resistance against the growing logic of violence shaping global relations today.

Highlighting the relevance of the occasion, retired Professor and former Head of the Department, Prof. Ram Nandan Singh, addressed the gathering and spoke about the prevailing global instability. He referred to ongoing conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war, tensions between the United States and Iran, and the Israel-Hamas conflict, along with the general erosion of trust among major powers. He emphasised that loving-kindness, genuine friendliness, and mutual goodwill are no longer mere spiritual ideals but existential necessities for ensuring peace and social harmony.

Prof. Singh further elaborated on the foundational teachings of the Buddha, including the Four Noble Truths, the Noble Eightfold Path, and the Brahmavihāras — loving-kindness, compassion, empathetic joy, and equanimity. He described these teachings as a systematic diagnosis of the human condition, rooted in the understanding that hatred cannot be overcome by hatred but only through its absence. He remarked that the Buddha was not merely a philosopher but a pragmatic guide for a suffering world.

Speaking on the occasion, Mrs. Shilpa Gupta, Founder of the University of Life, highlighted the socially transformative dimension of Buddhist teachings. Referring to the organisation’s recent memorandum of understanding with the University of Jammu, she stated that the initiative aims to promote research and skill development grounded in Buddhist principles. She underscored the Buddha’s egalitarian approach, noting that his teachings were open to all sections of society, including women, the poor, and the marginalised, challenging the notion that spiritual worth is determined by birth or gender.

Mrs. Gupta further stated that in a time when nations often demonise entire communities as adversaries, the Buddha’s message — that hatred ceases only through love — remains a profound and necessary truth. She added that this principle is not idealistic but a practical guide for contemporary society.

Prof. Reyaz Ahmed, Head of the Department of Buddhist Studies, also addressed the gathering and observed that the current global scenario is marked by extremes — aggressive militarism on one side and passive cynicism on the other. He emphasised that the Buddha’s teachings offer a balanced alternative through principled engagement rooted in non-violence without passivity.

The formal proceedings commenced with the lighting of the traditional lamp, symbolising the dispelling of ignorance through wisdom. This was followed by floral tributes offered before an image of the seated Buddha. Dr. Rajesh Sharma, Assistant Professor in the Department, delivered the welcome address and conducted the proceedings. Among the attendees were Dr. Ekta Kumari, Dr. Neeru Choudhary, and Mrs. Isha, along with 45 students and doctoral scholars of the department.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Vivek Sharma, who expressed gratitude to all speakers, participants, and collaborating institutions. He remarked that prayer without action remains incomplete and emphasised the need to translate the aspiration for world peace into meaningful action through compassion in daily life.

The celebration concluded with a message of hope, affirming that the light of the Buddha continues to guide humanity, and that the world must learn to heed its wisdom.