Commemoration of the International Day of Vesak

[18 May 2023, 1530 -1700 hrs]

Remarks by Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj

Permanent Representative of India to the UN

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Dear Colleagues,

A great story of an end and a beginning took place today in Kushinagar, India, many years ago.

Of course, we all know the story of Siddharth Gautam, that of an exceptional individual many centuries ago who told us of the balance within life, who spoke of the inevitable suffering as well as the antidote, that which lies within the pursuit of everyday life.

I find today a wonderful opportunity for reflection, for a deeper look into the lives we wish to craft for ourselves. Cliché perhaps but useful nevertheless. Furthermore, in times of such uncertainty, in a world we may not recognize, we are reminded of Karma, a philosophy rooted in both Buddhism and Hinduism. The notion of service and compassion to others is often washed over the haste of life. It is something we all have heard countless times, and yet perhaps still forget. But if true healing is to come, empathy is our only hope and I believe in this possibility, as my prayer and guide.

So on this auspicious day, I wish all of my UN and Indian friends a blessed Vesak.

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