Arunachal Pradesh deputy chief minister Chowna Mein inaugurated ‘Pancasila Vihara’ at Galenja Singpho village under Bordumsa sub-division in Changlang district on January 12 in the presence of local MLA Somlung Mossang and others.
“Pancasila Vihara is a symbol of peace and religious harmony in the region. It is a place of worship for the followers of Buddhism and is also a center for learning and cultural activities and events,” a statement from the deputy chief minister’s office said.
It said, the original vihara was a ‘kutcha’ structure built in 1980 by the natives of Galenja Singpho and neighbouring villages. Sensing the need for a concrete structure, the first pillar of ‘Pancasila Vihara’ was then erected in 2020 and its consecration completed this year. The name is a derivative of the five fundamental principles of the religion known as “Pancasila”.
Addressing the event, deputy chief minister Chowna Mein emphasized that the ‘Pancasila Vihara’ is not only a place of religious worship and devotion, but it also serves as center of learning and education. Viharas were traditionally places of learning in ancient India, and were responsible for preserving and spreading traditional knowledge and culture. It will further strengthen the sense of unity and communal harmony among the people of Arunachal Pradesh. He vowed his complete support to the Sangha in preserving the traditional culture and heritage of the state.
Furthermore, he also urged the citizens of the state to embrace the spirit of peace and communal harmony and strive to achieve the dream of a “New Arunachal”.
Earlier, the Dy CM flagged off the ‘Young India Run Marathon’, organised by Bharatiya Janta Yuva Morcha commemorating the National Youth Day and advised the youth to stay focused on their studies to achieve greater success and help the region develop. He also asked them to stay away from drugs and other such vices.
He also enlightened the youth about the principles of Swami Vivekananda and advised them to adopt his principles in their life to boost their morale and self-confidence.
