The Embassy of India in Kathmandu marked Buddha Jayanti with a series of vibrant events in Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Collaborating with the Lumbini Development Trust and Lumbini Buddhist University, the celebrations featured an academic symposium on “Buddha Dharma and Global Peace,” highlighting the enduring relevance of Buddha’s teachings.
The festivities included a captivating painting exhibition and a cultural evening. The centerpiece was the dance recital “Shweta Mukti – the Feminine Glory of Nirvana” by renowned Indian dancer Kavita Dwivedi and her troupe. Adding to the cultural tapestry, celebrated Indian vocalist Dr. Subhadra Desai performed soulful Bhajans and Dhamma songs, while the acclaimed Nepali music group ‘Sur Sudha’ presented a medley of Buddhist songs, showcasing the shared Buddhist heritage of India and Nepal.
The special event was graced by the presence of Nepal’s Prime Minister, Rt. Hon’ble Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, who served as the Chief Guest. Other distinguished attendees included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha, Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Minister Hit Bahadur Tamang, and Lumbini Province Chief Minister Jokh Bahadur Mahara, along with several senior provincial leaders.
