Anathapindaka Vihara holds foundation stone laying ceremony

Amitayus writes from central India with news of the foundation stone laying ceremony for the new Anathapindaka Vihara and Social Work Center at Triratna’s Amaravati centre. He says -

“ I have the privilege to inform you that the Dhammachari Lokamitra has laid the foundation stone of the Anathapindaka Vihara and Social Work Center in Amaravati. The ceremony started with the offerings to Buddha and Dr. Ambedkar fallowed by chanting by Dhammacharinis and with singing by the Ashvaghosh cultural team.

“The ceremony went very well in enthusiastic atmosphere and in presence of hundreds of Buddhists, non-Buddhists, well wishers, Mitras, and friends along with local leaders from various political and social organizations.

“In his talk Dhammachari Lokamitra appealed to people to contribute in the development of the Vihara as this would be the place of human empowerment and a place of Dhamma Revolution as well as a center from where people can learn and propagate Dhamma.

“Also Urgyen Sangharakshita sent his message to the ceremony which was read out as soon as the foundation stone was laid. In his message he said -


 ‘I am delighted to learn that, with the help of the Dhammamitras, the Dhammacharis and Dhammacharinis of the Vidharbha region are establishing a centre where the Dhamma can be taught and from which social work can be carried on.

 ‘I heartily congratulate all those who are involved in bringing this noble and worthwhile project to a successful conclusion. Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar’s Dhamma revolution has brought the Buddha’s sublime message to millions of people who were living in darkness and it is our duty to continue the mission he started.

 ‘Social work must be based on the principles of the Dhamma, and the Dhamma must find expression in social work. The institution you are establishing therefore has this double function, i.e. to be a place where the Dhamma is practiced and taught and from which social, educational, and medical activities are conducted. I am confident that with the support of all concerned it will be a source of blessing to hundreds of thousands of people within the Vidharbha region’.

“Dhammacharini Jayamani introduced the Anathapindaka Vihara which will consist of the Dhamma teaching and meditation hall, an educational residential hostel for boys, and a women child and youth empowerment center, along with a library.

“Finally there was rejoicing of merits (done by clapping hands) for those donors who have donated online and were not present on the occasion. All are invited to visit our on-line fundraising page www.justgiving.com/AnathapindakaVihara.

“Jai Bhim and metta to all,

Amitayus