On May 24, 2025, the B.V. Foundation for Peace & Harmony (a member group of IARF), in collaboration with United Religions Initiative and the Gandhi Centre, Visakhapatnam, hosted a lecture on “Buddhism in Promoting Peace and Harmony” to mark the 2569th Buddha Birth Anniversary.
Dr. Maturi Srinivas, a noted pulmonologist and Buddhist scholar, delivered a powerful keynote emphasizing Buddhism’s role in advancing human rights, non-violence, and ethical living. Highlighting principles such as Mudita (sympathetic joy), Maitri (friendship), and Karuna (compassion), he stressed the relevance of Buddhist teachings in fostering interfaith understanding, social harmony, and ecological balance. He also addressed how Buddhism encourages self-reflection and a mindful “let-go” approach to life, which means accepting life as it comes, while also acting with awareness, responsibility, and ethical clarity.
In his presidential address, Professor Narava Prakash Rao, BVF Chairman, called on attendees to promote harmony through religious understanding, lamenting Buddhism’s diminished presence in its homeland. He affirmed that religion should support human welfare, not dominate daily life.
Professor V. Balamohan Das (Former Chancellor of Nagarjuna University and President of the Gandhi Centre) shared personal reflections on Acharya Nagarjuna (known as “the Second Buddha) and his efforts to reintroduce Buddha Purnima celebrations in academia.
Professor Paddaiah, a professor of Human Genetics, described yoga and meditation from the viewpoint of genetics and society, in the context of following the principles of Buddhism.
The session concluded with a customary vote of thanks, reinforcing a shared commitment to interfaith peace and human dignity.
