A 32-Day ‘Padh Yatra’ or ‘Peace Walk’ for World Peace and Harmony in Ladakh was Organized by the World Alliance of Buddhists (WAB).
In a remarkable display of unity and shared purpose, a group of Buddhist monks from Thailand and other countries, along with local people and representatives of other faiths, embarked on a 32-day ‘Padh Yatra’ (foot march) in Ladakh.
The yatra, organized by the World Alliance of Buddhists (WAB), aimed to promote world peace, interfaith harmony, environmental protection, and social welfare.
Journey for Peace, Harmony, and Social Welfare
Commencing on June 15, 2023, from the picturesque Nubra Valley, the ‘Padh Yatra’ encompassed several significant destinations in Ladakh, including Diskit, Hunder, Sumur, Panamik, Khardung La, Leh, Thiksey, Hemis, Shey, Choglamsar, Spituk, and Shanti Stupa.
The yatra served as a profound spiritual journey, intertwining with a greater mission of fostering global peace, interfaith dialogue, environmental consciousness, and social upliftment.
‘Peace Walk’ Unites Thousands for a Noble Cause
On July 16, the ‘Peace Walk,’ which marked the culmination of the ‘Padh Yatra,’ transpired from the NDS Stadium to the revered Shanti Stupa in Leh, situated at a breathtaking altitude of 11,841 feet above sea level.
Approximately 2,500 individuals participated in this symbolic walk, comprising Buddhist monks from Thailand, Nepal, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and the USA, and notable leaders from diverse faiths, including Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Christianity.
The Indian Minorities Foundation (IMF), a prominent non-governmental organization dedicated to the welfare of minorities in India, also joined the peaceful demonstration.
During the ‘Peace Walk,’ the participating Buddhist monks wholeheartedly praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his unwavering commitment to peace and his efforts to develop Buddhist sites in India.
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Ven Dr. Pornchai Palawadhammo, president of the WAB, expressed deep admiration, stating, “PM Modi is a powerful man. He understands the teachings of Buddha:”
#WATCH | Ven Dr Pornchai Palawadhammo, president of the World Alliance of Buddhists (WAB), based in Thailand, who was part of ‘Peace Walk’ in Ladakh today says, “PM Modi is a powerful man. He understands the teachings of Buddha.” pic.twitter.com/6DhVolkb5D
— ANI (@ANI) July 16, 2023
Venerable Bhikkhu Sanghasena, the founder and president of the Mahabodhi International Meditation Center (MIMC) in Ladakh, echoed these sentiments, acknowledging Prime Minister Modi as a transformative leader capable of fostering global peace, harmony, and friendship.
Additionally, Venerable Bhikkhu Sanghasena expressed gratitude for Prime Minister Modi’s integration of spiritual values, such as yoga, meditation, and the concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family), into India’s overall development and its positive impact on the world.
“The whole world is going through many challenges. It needs a great leader who can bring peace and harmony and friendship in the whole world. And that is our prime minister Narendra Modi who is a Karmyogi himself. India is fortunate to have such a great leader who combines spiritual values –like yoga, meditation, and Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – to the general development of India and the world,” says Venerable Bhikkhu Sanghasena, Founder and President of Mahabodhi International Meditation Center (MIMC), in Leh, Ladakh.
#WATCH | “The whole world is going through many challenges. It needs a great leader who can bring peace and harmony and friendship in the whole world. And that is our prime minister Narendra Modi who is a Karmyogi himself. India is fortunate to have such a great leader who… pic.twitter.com/lNMKbk97ev
— ANI (@ANI) July 16, 2023
In conclusion, the ‘Padh Yatra’ and subsequent ‘Peace Walk’ served as powerful demonstrations of unity, compassion, and shared aspirations for world peace, interfaith harmony, and social welfare.
The participation of Buddhist monks, representatives from different faiths, and the commendation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership further emphasized the significance of collective efforts in creating a peaceful and harmonious world:
#WATCH | Buddhist monks take part in ‘Peace Walk’ in Ladakh, laud PM Modi’s call for peace in the world, development of Buddhist places in India pic.twitter.com/b1ZONk0qRK
— ANI (@ANI) July 16, 2023