WE SUPPORT PEACE

Today, we have gathered here to reflect upon a highly significant subject—world peace and harmony. This is not merely an idea or an ideal but the greatest necessity for all of humanity. While the world is advancing rapidly in terms of technology, it is simultaneously grappling with serious challenges such as conflict, intolerance, and division. War, violence, and mutual hostility have repeatedly wounded humanity. In such times, the importance of peace and harmony becomes even more profound.

World peace does not simply mean the absence of war; it signifies a state where every individual feels safe, respected, and free. Similarly, harmony implies mutual love, cooperation, and respect for each other’s thoughts and existence.

After embracing Jain monastic life, I had the opportunity to deeply study Jain philosophy, along with the timeless wisdom of Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, and broader Indian traditions. My journeys across the country and abroad have been guided by a singular purpose—to spread the message of peace and harmony in society, the nation, and the world.

Our great saints and spiritual leaders have always shown us the path of peace. They have taught that non-violence, compassion, tolerance, and love are the true foundations of religion. If we imbibe these values in our lives, positive transformation in society and the world is inevitable.

Religion teaches us to unite, not divide. There is no place for violence, hatred, or animosity in the realm of religion. Every problem can be resolved through dialogue and meaningful communication. For this, it is essential that we learn to respect others’ existence and viewpoints just as we value our own. Differences of opinion are natural, but preventing them from turning into divisions of the heart is our responsibility.

Indian culture is inherently pluralistic, with its greatest strength being unity in diversity. “Interfaith dialogue” is its core principle, forming the foundation of non-violence, peace, and harmony. Religion is not merely a tradition but a way of life that leads individuals toward inner peace, global harmony, and human unity.

Today, the world is facing numerous complex challenges—war, terrorism, environmental crises, social inequalities, and cultural intolerance. These issues cannot be resolved solely through political or economic measures; they require a broader perspective rooted in spirituality, ethics, and human values.

The principles propounded by Lord Mahavir—non-violence (Ahimsa), pluralism (Anekantavada), non-possession (Aparigraha), truth, and compassion—remain as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago. By adopting these principles in our lives, many global challenges can be addressed naturally.

The core philosophy of Indian culture, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family), inspires us to view the entire world as a single family. This is not just an ideal but a way of life that fosters sensitivity, tolerance, and cooperation. Our ancient sages were not only spiritual guides but also profound thinkers with a scientific outlook, whose teachings remain relevant even today.

Lord Mahavir’s three key principles—Ahimsa, Anekantavada, and Aparigraha—offer practical solutions to many contemporary global issues. At a time when the world faces war, violence, global warming, environmental pollution, inequality, and mental stress, it becomes essential to adopt these principles in both personal and social life.

To spread these values and accelerate efforts toward social service and global peace, initiatives like “Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti” and the “World Peace Centre” are actively working in areas such as education, healthcare, employment, environmental protection, equality, and peace-building.

We all aspire for development and prosperity, but it is important to understand that development and peace are deeply interconnected. When religious leaders, policymakers, and influencers across various sectors come together to promote peace and harmony, the impact is far-reaching.

Today, there is a need to rise above narrow self-interests and think about the greater good of humanity. Division in the name of religion, caste, language, or nation weakens us—unity is our true strength.

Peace begins within ourselves. When our thoughts are pure and our actions are positive, only then can we build a peaceful and harmonious society.

Let us all take a pledge to embrace non-violence, compassion, love, and brotherhood in our lives and become strong messengers of peace and harmony in the world.

Let us spread the message of Lord Mahavir—of non-violence, peace, and harmony—across the globe and contribute towards building a better, peaceful, and unified human society.

In a significant step towards promoting harmony and global brotherhood, the “We Support Peace” worldwide campaign was officially launched on the auspicious occasion of the 66th birthday of Acharya Lokeshji by Hon’ble Governor of Uttarakhand, Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh; Hon’ble Governor of Punjab, Shri Gulab Singh Kataria, from the World Peace Centre Gurugram.