New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that the life of Gautama Buddha was about peace, harmony, and co-existence. But today, there are still forces whose existence depends on spreading hate, terror, and mindless violence. PM Modi was delivering a keynote address on the occasion of Vesak Global Celebrations on Buddha Purnima through video conference.

Modi said that such hatred forces do not believe in liberal democratic principles and thus gave a call for all those who believe in humanity to come together and defeat terror and radicalization. He said Lord Buddha's teachings and the importance given to social justice can become a global unifying force.

The members of Venerated Mahasangha, Prime Ministers of Nepal and Sri Lanka, Union Ministers Prahlad Singh and KirenRijiju, Secretary-General of International Buddhist Confederation, Venerable Doctor Dhammapiya were also at the event. The Prime Minister said Lord Buddha was the reservoir of brilliance for the entire universe. From him, we all could draw light from time to time and take the path of compassion, universal responsibility, and welfare. Quoting Mahatma Gandhi “Buddha taught us to defy appearances and trust in the final triumph of Truth and Love” the Prime Minister urged everyone to renew their commitment to the ideals of Lord Buddha. Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said Vesak is a day to celebrate the life of Lord Buddha and to reflect on the noble ideals and sacrifices he made for the betterment of our planet. He added that he dedicated last year’s Vesak day programme to all the front-line workers leading humanity's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. A year later, the COVID-19 pandemic has still not left us and several nations, including India, have experienced a second wave. He remarked that this once in lifetime pandemic has brought tragedy and suffering to the doorstep of many and has impacted every nation. He said the economic impact left by the pandemic is huge and our planet will not be the same after COVID-19. He said there have been many noteworthy improvements as well over the last year, like having a better understanding of the pandemic, which strengthens our strategy to fight it, and having the vaccine, which is absolutely important to save lives and defeat the pandemic. He lauded the efforts of the scientists for developing the COVID-19 vaccines within a year and said this shows the power of human determination and tenacity.

Modi said that the four sights in the life of Lord Buddha ignited within him the desire to devote his life to removing human suffering. He said that in the last year, several individuals and organizations rose to the occasion and did everything possible to reduce human suffering. Generous contributions of equipment and materials were made by the Buddhist organizations and followers of Buddha Dharma from around the world. He remarked that these actions are in line with the teachings of Lord Buddha's blessings, compassion, and welfare of all.