Buddha’s Message is Even More Relevant in Today’s Era: Former Minister Shah
News Center Nepal – Kapilvastu:
On the occasion of the 2569th Buddha Jayanti, former Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Constituent Assembly member, and senior leader of CPN-UML, Akbal Ahmad Shah extended heartfelt greetings to all Nepali citizens and Buddha followers around the world.
A resident of Kapilvastu, Shah urged everyone to re-embrace the messages of peace, compassion, non-violence, and equality, which are historically and intellectually significant on this auspicious occasion.
In his message, Shah stated:
“The guidance provided by Lord Buddha has become even more relevant in today’s era. Buddha’s philosophy inspires us to move forward on the path of tolerance, equality, and humanity. In today’s politically, socially, and religiously challenging environment, Buddha’s teachings shine like a beacon of light.”
As a central leader of CPN-UML, Shah has long been a vocal advocate for inclusive development, federalism, and social justice in the country. During his tenure as a Constituent Assembly member, he played a vital role in ensuring the rights of marginalized communities including the Madhesi, Muslim, and Indigenous nationalities.
He further wrote:
“Inspired by Buddha’s teachings, we must continue our struggle for additional rights in accordance with the true spirit of social justice, inclusion, and federalism. In these challenging times, it is essential to stand firmly against regression and religious extremism.”
Emerging from the historically significant district of Kapilvastu, Shah has been actively involved in efforts to introduce the birthplace of Buddhism to the world. He has consistently emphasized the need to practice the teachings and philosophy of Gautam Buddha in daily life.
“Buddha is not only a religious teacher but also a symbol of human civilization,” he remarked.
Shah also called upon all Nepalis to unite for national unity, social harmony, development, and the building of a prosperous society.
“There may be differences in society, but Buddha’s teachings give us the strength to live together in harmony and mutual respect,” he said.
Akbal Shah has emerged as an inspirational leader not only for Kapilvastu but for the entire Terai-Madhes and Muslim community. Within the CPN-UML, he is known as a moderate, inclusive, and intellectual leader. He firmly believes in achieving change through peaceful struggle, dialogue, and policy-driven intervention.
Throughout his public life, he has consistently stood for inclusive ideals, a just perspective, and equal opportunity. His message on Buddha Jayanti is a continuation of that commitment.
Shah believes that if we can apply Buddha’s teachings in practice, religious tolerance, ethnic inclusion, and social prosperity can be achieved naturally in the country.
He concluded: “We must choose unity over division, non-violence over violence, and compassion and love over hatred.”
