Kathmandu, March 4
More than 75 thousand people today read out verses from the Dhammapad, one of the holy books of Buddhism, together at the same place.
This feat is certain to set a Guinness world record of the largest mass reading of the Dhammapad.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, former chairman of the Interim Council of Ministers, Khil Raj Regmi, the government ministers, artists and students were among the people from various walks of life participating in the mass reading of the holy book at local Tundikhel.
Addressing the programme organised at the initiatives of the World Records Council Nepal, Prime Minister Oli said, “I extend my reverence to the Shakyamuni Buddha on behalf of all and wish for peace from the land of the Buddha.”
He said nobody should be in confusion that Buddha was not born in Nepal as attempts have been made to spread falsehood about the Buddha in some places. “Buddha was born in Lumbini, Nepal and let us not debate on this,” he asserted.
Calling for upholding peace in the world, Prime Minister Oli denounced the violence and killings in Syria.
“I urge the governments and leaders around the world to move ahead in peace; let us not engage in violence and let us move ahead in peace and friendship,” he said.
The PM urged the protesting Biplav group also to have its demands addressed through talks.
Pratistha Amatya, on behalf the organisers, said that the Buddha’s words were not merely for recitation but also for emulating.
