The Universal Peace Gala, held on Saturday at the Himalayan Heritage Retreat at Shyalpa Monastery, Kapan, marked International Peace Day with a powerful message of global harmony and non-violence.
Organized to raise awareness and support for the construction of the Universal Peace Sanctuary in Lumbini, Nepal—the birthplace of Lord Buddha—the event brought together peace advocates, diplomats, and cultural figures from around the globe.
The gala featured vibrant cultural performances, including traditional Nepali dances and theatrical presentations, all aimed at emphasizing unity and the spirit of peace.
Shyalpa Tenzin Rinpoche, the spiritual leader and visionary behind the Universal Peace Sanctuary, delivered an inspiring address, urging the global community to seize the moment and embrace peace as a fundamental birthright. Known for his lifelong dedication to promoting peace, compassion, and understanding, Rinpoche shared his vision of creating a sanctuary solely dedicated to peace, transcending religious and cultural boundaries.
In his speech, Rinpoche said, “We have decided to seize this moment because peace is our birthright. I do feel this is important because many times, we take peace for granted. As a mutually responsible people, as we would like to think ourselves intelligent and sophisticated, if we do not try to live every moment as if there is no next moment, we are not understanding the true meaning of peace.”
Rinpoche also spoke passionately about the need for a global sanctuary that welcomes all people, regardless of race, creed, or nationality.
“Throughout history, there has never been a sanctuary solely established for peace. Yes, there are many religious destinations, but they are bound by some doctrine, and therefore are not solely dedicated to peace. While these places have done a good job propagating peace, I find them still somewhat territorial, not necessarily inclusive of everyone. Peace must be based on unconditional love. Nothing conditional will ever last, because everything conditional is exhaustible.”
Rinpoche emphasized the shared struggles of humanity, reminding the audience that despite differences in achievement, wealth, or belief, all people face life’s difficulties. He called on the global community to embrace its responsibility to foster lasting peace.
The Universal Peace Sanctuary, currently under construction in Lumbini, aims to be a neutral space where global leaders, diplomats, and people from all walks of life can gather to seek peaceful solutions to the world’s challenges. Rinpoche’s vision is to make peace more fashionable than war, creating a destination for unconditional peace that transcends all boundaries.
The gala was a celebration of International Peace Day and a call to action for global unity, leaving attendees inspired by the shared hope of building a future where peace is cherished and actively pursued.
