Kathmandu. In an extraordinary spiritual gathering at Lumbini Square, more than 700 participants united to illuminate an 80×80 feet Viswavajra Ratna Mandala with 25,000 lamps as part of the “Spiritual Light Art for World Peace” initiative. Held in the sacred land of Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, the event served as a powerful expression of collective hope, ethical awakening, and global solidarity. The program was jointly organized by the Faculty of Buddhist Studies, Lumbini Buddhist University; Lalitpur Gold and Silver Dealers Association; Lumbini Development Trust; and the Dhammakaya Foundation, reflecting a unique collaboration between academic institutions, civic leadership, and international spiritual organizations dedicated to promoting peace and moral responsibility.
The event was chaired by Dr. Manik Ratna Shakya, Dean of the Faculty of Buddhist Studies, Lumbini Buddhist University, and Mr. Subin Shakya, Chairman of the Lalitpur Gold and Silver Dealers Association, who delivered the welcome address. Distinguished dignitaries present included Chief Guest Prof. Dr. Suvarna Lal Bajracharya; Guest of Honour Venerable Thavorn Thavaro from the Dhammakaya Foundation (Thailand); Ms. Manjari Shakya, Deputy Mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City; Ms. Kalpana Harijon, Deputy Mayor of Lumbini Cultural Municipality; Mr. Dipes Shakya, Vice Chairman of the Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers Association; Mr. Gyanin Rai and Mr. Rajesh Shakya from Lumbini Development Trust; and the program was gracefully hosted by Mr. Sanjay Shakya along with faculty and students from Lumbini Buddhist Studies and other participants from across Nepal.
The gathering took place against the backdrop of increasing global unrest, armed conflicts, environmental crises, and a visible erosion of ethical values. Speakers emphasized that while political and economic measures remain important, lasting peace requires inner transformation grounded in compassion, mindfulness, and wisdom. In this fragile global context, Lumbini stands as a timeless beacon of non-violence, tolerance, and moral living.
For over two millennia, the Buddha’s teachings have inspired humanity with the message of loving-kindness and liberation from suffering. The 25,000 Light Gathering sought to revive this universal message in a contemporary setting, inviting participants to reflect on their individual responsibility toward building a harmonious world.
The centerpiece of the evening, the illuminated Viswavajra Ratna Mandala, was not merely an artistic installation but a contemplative symbol of balance and interconnectedness. In Buddhist philosophy, the mandala represents the integrated vision of the cosmos and the human being. Drawing from Abhidhamma and meditative traditions, it reflects the harmony of the five great elements; Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Space; present both in nature and within the human body. At the heart of the mandala lies the Viswavajra, symbolizing indestructible wisdom and compassionate power. It affirms that true and sustainable world peace begins with inner awakening and ethical clarity.
The lighting of lamps carried profound meaning. The Buddha’s exhortation, “Attadīpā bhava” means “Be your own light” resonated deeply throughout the ceremony. Each flame symbolized the dispelling of ignorance through wisdom, the transformation of hatred into loving-kindness, and the cultivation of generosity over greed. In Buddhist tradition, the offering of light generates merit (puñña) and nurtures positive mental energy; collectively, the 25,000 lamps became a silent yet powerful prayer for humanity.
As the mandala glowed brilliantly under the evening sky, it stood as a visual and spiritual reminder that unity in diversity is possible. The Spiritual Light Art for World Peace sent forth a universal call: that peace-loving individuals across cultures and nations must come together in ethical awareness and shared responsibility.
From the sacred birthplace of the Buddha, the radiant circle of 25,000 lights illuminated not only Lumbini but also a renewed pathway toward compassion, harmony, and global peace.
