World Peace Centre will show path of non-violence to world: Kovind

 Media Coverage  |  03-03-2025

Former President opens World Peace Centre built by Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti

Lokmat News Network

Gurugram (Haryana)

As the world grapples with issues like war, terrorism, global warming, and inequality, the Global Peace Centre will play a vital role in fostering non-violence and peace, said former President Ram Nath Kovind.

Kovind inaugurated the World Peace Centre, established by  Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti under the guidance of Jain Acharya Lokesh Muniji  in Gurugram on Sunday.

Speaking at the event, Kovind emphasised that by merely creating an atmosphere of non-violence is not just the responsibility of saints, sages, and religious leaders but of all individuals. He further asserted that non-violence should not remain just as a principle but must evolve into a movement.

Highlighting India’s rich heritage of renunciates, ascetics, and sages who prioritised spirituality, Kovind noted that in an era dominated by materialism, Acharya Lokesh Muni’s efforts through the Global Peace Centre to establish spiritual consciousness and moral values are truly inspiring.

‘Historic & proud moment for India’

Punjab governor Kataria said, “ Rajasthan-born Acharya Lokeshji was honoured with the National Communal Harmony Award by the Government of India. He has also been honoured with the US Presidential Award, which is a matter of pride for Rajasthan and India.” Bihar governor Arif Mohammad Khan called the establishment of the Global Peace Centre as a significant step towards global peace and harmony, expressing confidence that the Centre will promote religious and social tolerance as well as mutual goodwill. Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini stated that opening of the Global Peace Centre on Haryana’s sacred land is a proud and historic moment not just for India but for the entire world.

Promoting justice, equality & fraternity

Uttar Pradesh deputy chief minister Keshav Prasad Maurya said that modern nation-builders have embodied the ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity through service, and this peace centre will fulfill these objectives. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said,  “Where Hari (God) resides that land is called Haryana,” and setting up of the Global Peace Centre in such a sacred place gives a strong message. He remarked that while weapons strengthen a nation, intellectual and philosophical discourses are equally essential.

Grand spiritual and social service initiative

Jain Acharya Lokesh Muniji described the inauguration of the Global Peace Centre as a grand confluence of spirituality and social service, emphasising that it will serve as a beacon of light for global peace and harmony. As the world faces violence and unrest, the establishment of this peace centre will help transform the society. Yoga guru Swami Ramdev lauded Acharya Lokesh Muniji’s leadership, stating that the Global Peace Centre would continuously strive to uphold human values and national integrity not just in India but across the world. Morari Bapu said, “It is clear that the ideals of great men like Lord Mahavir, Maryada Purushottam Ram, Lord Buddha, and Guru Nanak will be spread through the seven-storey World Peace Centre which stands on the four pillars of knowledge, philosophy, character, and penance. Religious leader Govind Dev Giri stressed the need for a spiritual and moral revolution and commended Acharya Lokesh Muniji for taking the initiative to establish this centre on a global scale. The grand gathering of saints was also addressed by renowned spiritual leader  Rameshbhai Ojha, Buddhist monk Sanghasena, Imam Umar Ahmed Ilyasi, Swami Dharmadev, Swami Deepankar, Paramjit Singh Chandok, Swami Abhay Das, Pundarik Goswami, and Devi Chitralekha.

Message of peace & brotherhood

will spread across globe: Dr Darda

Lokmat News Network

Gurugram (Haryana)

Chairman of editorial board of Lokmat Media Group and former member of Rajya Sabha Dr Vijay Darda said the message of peace and brotherhood would spread across the globe from the World Peace Centre.

Dr Darda commended the founder of Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti, Jain Acharya Lokesh Muniji, for his efforts to promote non-violence as per Jain traditions.

Sharing a personal experience when he had met Acharyashri at the Lokmat Global Economic Convention in Singapore,  Dr Darda said that he had observed Acharyashri’s unwavering dedication to the Jain way of life.

Despite being at a hotel, Acharyashri refused to eat hotel food or even drink water provided in the complex, highlighting commitment to the principles he follows, he said.

“Jurist and former member of Rajya Sabha LM Singhvi had once suggested that Acharyashri  should be given some free time to pursue work that would allow him to break all bonds and spread the message of peace and brotherhood across the world”, Dr Darda recalled. He also informed that Acharya Lokesh Muniji had addressed the Canadian parliament and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was deeply moved by his speech, especially at  a time when fear gripped the world. Acharya Lokesh Muniji’s message was delivered with such love and compassion that it left a lasting impact, one that is worth emulating by everyone.

Dr Darda further spoke about his 40-year association  with Bihar governor Arif Mohammad Khan, noting that while they often discuss politics and law, it is particularly remarkable to hear him speak about Lord Mahavir.

Further more, Dr Darda informed that he had worked with Uttar Pradesh deputy chief minister Keshav Prasad Maurya earlier by collaborating in various committees of the parliament.

Photo caption

World Peace Centre opens

Former President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurating the World Peace Centre, established by Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti, in Gurugram on Sunday. Art of Living founder Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Jain Acharya Lokesh Muniji, spiritual leader Morari Bapu and Haryana chief minister Naib Singh Saini are also seen. (Right) Former President Ram Nath Kovind addressing the spiritual gathering at World Peace Centre.

Chairman of editorial board of Lokmat Media Group and former member of Rajya Sabha Dr Vijay Darda was honoured by Acharya Lokesh Muniji, Bihar governor Arif Mohammad Khan and Uttar Pradesh deputy chief minister Keshav Prasad Maurya during the inauguration of World Peace Centre in Gurugram on Sunday.

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