Mumbai, Jan 14 (PTI) President Ram Nath Kovind todaysaid the message of Lord Buddha was essential for the societyto move from violence towards mercy.
He was speaking at the 'Gratitude Day' function at theGlobal Vipassana Pagoda at Gorai in suburban Borivali here.
The day commemorates the death anniversary of Sayagyi UBa Khin, a renowned Vipassana teacher from Myanmar, and the'pagoda' is built as a token of gratitude to him.
"For the sake of humanity, we need to move from violencetowards mercy and therefore it is essential to expand themessage of Lord Buddha in society. Vipassana helps us inteaching such messages and principles to the people," thepresident said while addressing the audience.
Kovind said that Maharashtra was famous for severalachievements but it got wider recognition from its centres offaith and tradition.
"The caves of Ajanta that attract tourists from acrossthe world is an example," he said.
Underlining the benefits of Vipassana, Kovind said ithelps improve concentration.
"..students can get better marks in exams. Governmentofficials and sportsmen can also perform well as Vipassana hasgreat impact on the mind, body and at the spiritual level," hesaod.
Kovind also praised the Maharashtra government forencouraging its employees to undertake Vipassana courses.
Earlier in the programme, Chief Minister DevendraFadnavis paid rich tribute to Sayagyi U Ba Khin, SatyanarayanGoenka and, Elaichi Devi Goenka for their outstandingcontribution in reviving Vipassana in the country. PTI APM BNMCHT.
This is unedited, unformatted feed from the Press Trust of India wire.