Leh, Apr 24: Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, today visited the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre (MIMC), where he was accorded a warm and traditional welcome. The Minister lit a butter lamp in front of Lord Buddha and took blessings at the outset of his visit.
The Minister was received by Bhikkhu Sanghasena, Founder and Spiritual Director of MIMC, who extended his greetings and appreciation for the Minister’s visit despite his busy schedule.
During the visit, Ven. Bhikkhu Sanghasena briefed the Union Minister in detail about the wide range of humanitarian and spiritual initiatives being undertaken by MIMC. These include educational programs for underprivileged children, healthcare services, an old age home for the elderly, a dedicated home for the visually impaired, nunneries for spiritual education, and the Yoga and Meditation Centre promoting mental and physical well-being.
Highlighting the Centre’s ongoing developmental efforts, Bhikkhu Sanghasena informed the Minister about the ambitious Buddha Park project being developed within the campus. He emphasized its potential to emerge as a major spiritual and tourist attraction in the region and sought support from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism for its timely completion. In this regard, a formal memorandum of demand was submitted to the Minister.
Appreciating the initiatives of the Centre, the Union Minister lauded the efforts being made to preserve and promote traditions and culture at the grassroots level. He stated that the Government of India is generously supporting and funding such organizations and initiatives that contribute to cultural enrichment, social welfare, and spiritual development.
Responding positively, the Minister assured that the Government would extend all possible assistance to support the Buddha Park project and other initiatives of MIMC.
During the visit, Tashi Gyaltson also accompanied the Union Minister.
As a mark of respect and honor, the Minister was presented with a traditional khatak and a memento by the MIMC authorities.
Following the interaction, the Minister toured the Devachan campus and visited the Yoga and Meditation Centre, where he appreciated the serene environment and the Centre’s holistic approach towards community service and spiritual growth.
Expressing his gratitude, Bhikkhu Sanghasena thanked the Minister for visiting the campus at short notice and for sparing valuable time from his demanding schedule. In response, the Minister assured that he would visit again in the future for a more comprehensive tour of the MIMC campus and to further engage with its activities.
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