Follow the path shown by Buddha: Prez, Governor

Varanasi: President Ram Nath Kovind and Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel have called upon the people to follow the path shown by Lord Buddha.In his pre-recorded video message for the function organised by the Union ministry of culture and International Buddhist Confederation at Dhamek Stupa and Mulgandha Kuti Vihar in Sarnath to mark the celebration of Ashadha Purnima on Wednesday, the President said, “In his preaching, Lord Buddha focussed on inner peace. By following the path shown by him we can form a sensitive world.”In her address, chief guest of the function Governor Anandiben Patel said that Lord Buddha had given the message for purification of mind. “The world can become free from anarchy by following the preaching of Lord Buddha as despite being several hundred years old they are still relevant for society and its progress,” she said.Earlier, Union minister of state for culture Meenakshi Lekhi welcomed the Governor, Buddhist religious authorities and monks at the function organised on Ashadha Purnima, which is the second most sacred day for Buddhists after Buddha Purnima and is observed as the Dharma Chakra Pravartana Divas. She also honoured the Governor by presenting a memento. Earlier, the function started at Sarnath with Dharmacakrapravartana Sutra chanting at Dhamekh. It was followed by offering of flowers and pradakshina at the stupa by the dignitaries and participants. Later, the Governor and Lekhi reached Mulagandha Kuti Vihara in a golf cart for the lighting of lamp and offering of flowers to the Holy Buddha relics at the Vihara. They also offered chivar to Lord Buddha.