(This column first appeared in Hindustan Times on October 19, 2021)
- In September 2019, while addressing the United Nations General Assembly on terrorism, Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi stated that the teachings of “Buddh” (Lord Buddha) rather than the message of “yuddh” (war) were India’s contribution to the world. For the PM, Buddha and his teachings have a special place, and he has spoken, on various occasions, about the teachings of Buddha and their relevance in today’s world. Buddhism is India’s civilisational heritage, and is one of our greatest cultural exports…