KATHMANDU, March 16: In a move to raise global awareness on peace and promote Visit Nepal Year 2020, several Buddhist organizations have teamed up with Nepal Tourism Board and Lumbini Development Trust to organize 'Light of Peace 2019' in Kathmandu on Saturday.
As part of the event being held at Tundikhel, 1,119 persons have already been given ordination in Lumbini. They will join with more than 3,000 others in lighting candles for peace, according to the organizers. A meditation session will also be conducted on the occasion.
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The Middle Way Meditation Institute (MMI), a New York based organization that runs meditation programs in six continents, is the main organizer of the event. Nepali partners for the event include Akhil Nepal Bhikkhu Association, Dharmodaya Sabha, Young Men Buddhist Association, Shree Shakya Singha Vihar, Aksheswor Mahabihar, Hiranyabarna Mahavihar, and Dharmasthali International Meditation Center.
"World peace is possible through inner peace. That is the major message we wish to give through the event," said Venerable Burin Thitakusalo, executive director of MMI.
Apart from promoting the country's tourism campaign, the event also aims to promote Lumbini as a world destination for Buddhists and non-Buddhists. Vice President Nanda Bahadur Pun will inaugurate the event. Noted singer nun Ani Choying Drolma will sing on the occasion.