The virtual event started at 6.30 in the morning and went on till 7.45 in the evening. Budhha Purnima marks the birth anniversary of Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. Before the Prime Minister's speech, Culture and Tourism Minister Prahlad Singh Patel and Minister of State for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju participated in the event.
Here are some of the key points from the address:
- The Prime Minister extended his wishes to all on Buddha Purnima. He said the current situation makes it impossible to participate in Buddha Purnima programs physically. But technology helps to bridge the gap and makes it easier for us to communicate.
- He said that the message and resolve to reduce problems of every life has guided the culture of India. Lord Buddha contributed to the enrichment of Indian civilization and tradition. Buddha became his own light and lit the lives of others in his journey of life.
- He also talked about the frontline workers and said that during this difficult time of the pandemic and lockdown, there are several ppl around us who are working 24 hours to help others, to maintain law and order, to cure infected persons and to maintain cleanliness, by sacrificing their own comforts. He said that all such people deserve our appreciation and honour.
- Modi also talked about how the teaching of Buddha is still relevant in the present. He said India is constantly working to help other countries across the globe and will continue to do the same. To stop after getting tired cannot be a solution to any problem. All of us must fight together to defeat. He added that India is standing selflessly in support of everyone, without any discrimination, who are in need or who are in trouble, in the country or across the globe
- PM Modi also highlighted that Buddha is the symbol of both the realization and self-realization of India. And with this self-realization, India is working in the interest of humanity and the world and will continue to do so.