Envision a symbol of universal brotherhood and peace. Here before us stands the Vishwa Shanti Stupa. It is a Buddhist monument in Delhi.
The Vishwa Shanti Stupa is one of several Peace Pagodas in the world. The Nipponzan-Myōhōji-Daisanga religious order of Buddhism started it. The Dalai Lama inaugurated it on November 4, 2007.
The Vishwa Shanti Stupa opened on November 14, 2007. It is located near Humayun’s Tomb. Earlier plans wanted to construct the stupa at Buddha Jayanti Park. A Japanese garden surrounds it. Buddhist monk Nichidatsu Fujii originally planned the Shanti Stupa. He worked with Jawaharlal Nehru. Nehru was independent India’s first prime minister. Construction started in 2004. It was a collaboration with the Delhi Development Authority. The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi also helped. Three years were spent on its construction.
The Dalai Lama inaugurated the Vishwa Shanti Stupa. Many Indian dignitaries attended the ceremony. They included governors and the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi. Mikhail Gorbachev was also there. He was the former president of the Soviet Union. Several Buddhist monks and nuns participated as well. Sheila Dikshit was the Chief Minister of Delhi. She proclaimed that Lord Buddha’s message is timeless. It has universal relevance. The 14th Dalai Lama Tenzin Gyatso blessed the Shanti Stupa. He hoped it would encourage the spread of universal peace. He said brotherhood lies at the core of Buddhism.
The Vishwa Shanti Stupa receives 2.5 million visitors every year. Around 80 other such Peace Pagodas exist. The Nipponzan-Myōhōji-Daisanga religious order built them.
The Vishwa Shanti Stupa measures 30 meters in height. It has a diameter of 37 meters. The stupa is situated in Millennium Indraprastha Park. This park lies to the North-East of Humayun’s Tomb. It is adjacent to Delhi Ring Road. The garden is a joint project. It involves the Fujii Guruji Vishwa Shanti Stupa Committee. The Delhi Development Authority is also involved. Over the years, the Shanti Stupa has become a symbol of peace. It aims at promoting peace across the world.
Entry to Vishwa Shanti Stupa is free. It is open from 7 AM to 7 PM. Nearby places include Indraprastha Park and Delhi Zoo. They are both less than a kilometer away. Other nearby locations include Delhi Golf Club and Pragati Maidan.
Reflect upon the message of peace and harmony that emanates from this sacred site. Let the tranquility of the Vishwa Shanti Stupa linger in your hearts. May it guide you towards universal brotherhood.