Changlang: Arunachal Pradesh deputy chief minister Chowna Mein in the presence of Bordumsa‑Diyun MLA Somlung Mossang inaugurated the Pancasila Vihara at Galenja Singpho village on Thursday.
The Pancasila Vihara is a symbol of peace and religious harmony in the region. It is a place of worship for the followers of Buddhism and also a centre for learning and cultural activities.
The original Vihara (monastery) was a makeshift structure built in the year 1980 by the locals of the Galenja Singpho and neighbouring villages. Sensing the need for a concrete establishment, the first pillar of the Pancasila Vihara was erected in 2020 and the consecration was completed this year.
The name is a derivative of the five fundamental principles of the Indian religion known as “Pancasila”.
Addressing the event, Mein emphasized that the Pancasila Vihara is not only a place of religious worship and devotion, but it also serves as a centre of learning and education.
“Viharas were traditional places of learning in ancient India, and were responsible for preserving and spreading traditional knowledge and culture. The Pancasila Vihara will further strengthen the sense of unity and communal harmony among the people of Arunachal Pradesh,” he said.
The deputy CM also assured his support to the Sangha in preserving the traditional culture and heritage of the state.
Mein on the occasion also urged the citizens of the state to embrace the spirit of peace and communal harmony and strive to achieve the dream of a “New Arunachal”.
The deputy CM further expressed his gratitude to the Galenja Singpho community for taking the initiative to build the Vihara.
Further highlighting the importance of National Youth Day, Mein advised the youths to adopt Swami Vivekananda’s principles in their life to boost their morale and self confidence.
Earlier, the deputy CM flagged off the Young India Run Marathon, organised by the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha.
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