The 8th State-level Buddhist convention got off to an impressive start in Tirupati on Saturday, with the arrival of hundreds of members of the community from across the country.
C. Anjaneya Reddy, a retired IPS officer and a staunch follower of Buddha’s principles, said Buddhism would, in a great way, help in eradicating caste system and the resultant evil practices such as untouchability and social ostracism. “Buddhism is the true essence of Indian heritage,” he said.
Monks Sanghapala Bantheji and Analeo Bantheji, in their discourse, said noble thoughts, kind heart and disciplined way of life comprised the essence of Buddhism. Keeping mind under control and away from temptations were the secrets to happy life, they said. The ‘Panchasheela’ flag was hoisted at the venue by the Buddhist Society of India national president Chandrabhanu Haridas Patil and meet convener G. Govindaswamy.
In the afternoon session, journalist Mallepalli Lakshmaiah called for creation of ‘Bouddha Bharat’ dreamt by B.R. Ambedkar. The convention also had cultural programmes in which children took part.
