World Interfaith Harmony Week 2024

World Interfaith Harmony Week 2024

Buddhism: The Role of Art and Culture in Promoting Peace and Harmony

5 February 2024

Organised by Chavara Cultural Centre, Delhi

As part of its seven-day interfaith lecture series during World Interfaith Harmony Week 2024, the Chavara Cultural Centre, Delhi hosted a special talk on Buddhism delivered by Venerable Jampa Dorjee on the theme “The Role of Art and Culture in Promoting Peace and Harmony in Buddhism.”

In his reflection, Venerable Jampa Dorjee emphasized the universal truth that all beings—human and animal alike—seek happiness and peace, and wish to avoid suffering and violence. He noted that building a peaceful society begins not at the external level but within the human heart. According to Buddhist teaching, inner peace is the foundation upon which social harmony is built.

Drawing from the teachings of Lord Buddha, he highlighted the principle: “Take yourself as an example—do not harm others.” Just as one longs for happiness and freedom from suffering, so too does every other being. He also recalled the wisdom of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, who advises, “If you cannot help others, at least do not harm them,” reinforcing compassion as the minimum ethical commitment of humanity.

The talk further explored the roots of negative emotions such as attachment and hatred, explaining that they arise from ignorance about the true nature of the mind. Through awareness, meditation, and disciplined practice, individuals can overcome these negativities and cultivate clarity, compassion, and balance.

Art and culture in Buddhism were presented as powerful tools for nurturing inner refinement. Sacred art, meditation practices, chants, and cultural expressions are not merely aesthetic forms but spiritual disciplines that guide individuals toward harmony within themselves and with others.

Venerable Jampa Dorjee concluded by affirming that to create a happier and more peaceful world, one must first cultivate happiness and compassion within oneself. The session beautifully aligned with the vision of World Interfaith Harmony Week, reinforcing that inner transformation is the pathway to collective peace.