New Delhi / Chicago: In an unprecedented and monumental event, globally acclaimed Jain Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muni, renowned for his advocacy for peace, delivered a momentous lecture on “An Interfaith Call to Action on Climate Change” at the prestigious 2023 World Parliament of Religions held in Chicago, USA. This historic gathering witnessed dignitaries and attendees alike applauding Acharya Lokeshji’s discourse as a significant leap towards global welfare, underscoring the sense of pride it brings to Indian culture.
Jain Acharya Lokeshji, the visionary Founder of Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti and World Peace Center, underscored the pivotal role of Jainism in promoting environmental consciousness. He expounded on the doctrine of Shatjivanikay, propagated by the revered Mahavira, which fervently advocates the preservation of nature and natural resources. Jain Agams, the sacred texts of Jainism, uniquely depict nature as a sentient entity, attributing life-like characteristics to the five fundamental elements – Prithvi (earth), Jal (water), Agni (fire), Vayu (air), and Aakash (sky). These elements harmoniously give rise to various forms of life, from vibrant vegetation to diverse fauna. This profound Jain philosophy inherently encourages responsible consumption and active stewardship of the environment.
Addressing the distinguished gathering, Raj Rajeshwar Guruji Sanatan Dharma Bhushan from London, highlighted the pressing existential threat our planet faces, thereby emphasizing the urgency of interfaith cooperation to combat the repercussions of climate change. Bhai Sahib Satpal Singh Ji, Sikh Ambassador to the USA, fervently stressed the global scale of the crisis, transcending geographical and religious boundaries, while underlining the collective responsibility that binds humanity.
Swami Ramesvaranand ji, representing Spain, advocated for a values-based approach to addressing climate change, rooted in virtues like compassion, empathy, and a profound sense of responsibility towards future generations. Amma Sri Karunamai from Andhra Pradesh passionately urged for an immediate transition to sustainable and renewable energy sources, coupled with a concerted effort to reduce the carbon footprint. She emphasized that these actions not only uphold environmental ethics but also reflect a moral imperative towards safeguarding our planet and its inhabitants.
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Sadhvi Bhagwati Saraswati Ji, a revered figure from Parmarth Niketan in Rishikesh, reaffirmed the pivotal role of the environment in sustaining life on Earth, underscoring its undeniable importance. Swami Brahmeshwaranandji and Acharya Abhaydas Ji, prominent spiritual leaders, resonated with this sentiment, underscoring the dire need to preserve the natural environment for the well-being of future generations.
Guru Dilip Thangappan, emphasizing the critical nature of individual responsibility in mitigating pollution, expressed that a healthy life necessitates access to clean air, unpolluted water, and a pristine environment.
The event also witnessed the esteemed presence of prominent personalities including Samani Pratibha Pragya ji, Samani Jin Pragya ji, Samani Mr. Bhavya Srivastava, Founder of Religion World, and renowned Motivational Speaker Sajan Shah.
Acharya Lokesh’s remarkable initiative to foster a global dialogue on climate change, seamlessly integrating diverse spiritual perspectives, marks a pivotal juncture in our collective pursuit to safeguard the planet’s future.
