Mandya: “Lord Buddha was a magnificent soul who, despite being born into royalty and enjoying every worldly luxury, chose to renounce his kingdom after witnessing the realities of sickness, old age and death. He embraced the life of an ascetic to deliver a profound message of peace to the world,” said Vijayalakshmi Raghunandan, vice-president of the Karnataka State Small Industries Development Corporation.Speaking after inaugurating 2570th Buddha Jayanti celebrations at the Dr BR Ambedkar Bhavan in Mandya, which was organised by the district administration in collaboration with the department of Kannada and culture, she emphasised that Buddha’s teachings remain a vital guide for humanity to live with compassion and harmony.She noted his core philosophy that the world is full of suffering, desire is the root of that suffering, and by overcoming desire, one can find liberation.Additional superintendent of police Gangadhar Swamy highlighted that the Panchsheel principles taught by Buddha form the foundation for a moral and peaceful life. He remarked that these principles are not merely rules but a lifestyle that leads to true happiness.
