The Dalai Lama celebrates New Nalanda University inauguration
The Dalai Lama has warmly celebrated the inauguration of the new Nalanda University campus in Rajgir, Bihar, in a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Reflecting on the historical significance of the original Nalanda University as a beacon of learning in ancient India, the Dalai Lama praised its role in fostering rigorous study, debate, and the pursuit of knowledge across disciplines like philosophy, science, mathematics, and medicine.
Highlighting the enduring relevance of Nalanda’s teachings on ahimsa (non-violence) and karuna (compassion), the Dalai Lama emphasized their critical importance in today’s global context.
He underscored the university’s traditional focus on understanding the mind and emotions through Indian meditative practices, such as shamatha (tranquility) and vipashyana (insight), which he believes can harmoniously integrate with modern educational frameworks.
The Dalai Lama expressed hope for the revival of interest in ancient Indian wisdom among young people and believes that the new Nalanda University will be instrumental in fostering this knowledge.
He concluded with heartfelt wishes for the institution’s prosperity, envisioning it as a catalyst for creating a more compassionate and enlightened world through the synthesis of ancient wisdom and contemporary education.
