Nagarjuna Training Institute organised a one-day seminar on “The Contribution to Buddhism of Anagarika Dharmapala and Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar” on 7th November, 2014 at Buddhasurya Vihar in Nagaloka, Nagpur. Many Dhammacharis, Dhammacharinis and alumni participated. Dhammachari Lokamitra delivered the keynote address. He was joined by Venerable Revatta, former Secretary of Mahabodhi Society, India, and head of the Sri Lankan Bhikkhu Sangha in India, Dhammachari Devamitra from United Kingdom and Dhammacharini Vijaya from Nagpur.
Dhammachari Lokamitra inspired people by telling his own indirect connection with Anagarika Dharmapala thorugh Urgyen Sangharakshita and one of Dharmapala’s disciples, the late Ven Sangharatana. He looked at similarities in the approaches of Anagarik Dharmapala and Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar. Ven. Revata started with the quote “If there is no discipline, there is no religion”. His talk was on vision of Urgyen Sangarakshita, Anagarika Dharmapala and Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar’s contribution towards the revival of Buddhism in India, and the history of the Mahabodhi temple. DhammachariDevamitra talked of his own understanding on Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar’s approach towards Buddhism. Dhammacharini Vijaya drew attention to the unique contributions made by these two great personalities of 20th century. The talks were followed by discussion and questions from participants. Dr. Satish Shambharkar, of Nagarjuna Institue expressed his gratitude to speakers and participants, and concluded with vote of thanks.
