AP committed to spread Buddhism: CM's Spl Secy

Vijayawada Special Secretary to Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy Dr M Hari Krishna attended the exhibition 'Tree & Serpent: Early Buddhist Art in India, 200 BCE–400 CE' at The Met Museum in New York.

During his visit, he said the Andhra Pradesh Government is committed to spread Buddhism and develop Buddhist sites as tourist places. The exhibition showcased over 140 objects highlighting the pre-Buddhist origins in India.

Speaking on the occasion at a press opening for the exhibition, Hari Krishna extended his best wishes to the gathering on behalf of Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. Addressing as a representative of India, the land of Lord Buddha, Dr Hari Krishna said Lord Buddha delivered his first Kalachakra ceremony in Andhra Pradesh 2500 years ago and added that Late Chief Minister YS Rajashekar Reddy facilitated the organisation of Kalachakra congregation in Andhra Pradesh in 2006 and two and half million Buddhist followers participated and esteemed spiritual leader Dalai Lama lead it. He added that Andhra Pradesh is home to several antiques which are associated with Buddha including Amaravati Stupa built in 250 CE and post the kalachakra congregation in 2006, 125 feet Dhyana Buddha statue was built in Amaravati which features eight pillars symbolising Buddha’s eight folds path towards salvation and beneath the structure, there is a well maintained museum dedicated to Lord Buddha.

He said the AP Chief Minister is initiating several measures to promote the rich cultural heritage of the State through the “Visit Andhra Pradesh” Campaign. He is a strong supporter of world’s peace. Acknowledging that Lord Buddha embodies peace and that his teachings are relevant in current times of needless strive, he has been encouraged to lend priceless artefacts to this exhibition which are expected to inspire visitors to follow Lord Buddha’s teachings.” he said.