Buddha-Basavanna Namana in Bangalore Highlights Interfaith Harmony and Social Justice

Bangalore, May 8, 2026: The teachings of Lord Buddha and Jagajyoti Basavanna were celebrated as powerful messages of compassion, equality and social harmony during the Buddha-Basavanna Namana interfaith programme organised at NBCLC, Bangalore, on May 7.

The event was jointly organised by the Karnataka Regional Inter Religious Dialogue Commission and NBCLC, bringing together religious leaders, scholars and participants from diverse faith traditions to reflect on the enduring relevance of Buddha and Basavanna in today’s society.

Among those present were Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Susainathan of Bangalore, Chairman of the Karnataka Regional Inter Religious Dialogue Commission, Swami Shivarudra, Ven. Banthe Ji, Halima Ji and Shree Shiyunadi Ji. Speakers emphasised the shared values of non-violence, justice, fraternity and social reform found in both traditions.

The programme began with a prayer led by the Maha Bodhi Society and Mrs. Khansa Banu, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and the recitation of Asathoma, symbolising the journey from darkness to light.

Welcoming the gathering, Fr. John Baptist, Director of NBCLC, stressed the importance of dialogue, mutual respect and collaboration among different faith communities in fostering peace and understanding. Nawab Ji compered the programme.

Thematic sessions formed the centrepiece of the event. Swami Beli Matta Shree reflected on Basavanna’s vision of social equality and spiritual renewal, while Harshavardhan Ji highlighted Buddha’s teachings on overcoming suffering through ethical and compassionate living.

Brahmakumari Sister spoke on the common values of peace and compassion shared by both traditions. Halima Ji underlined the significance of interfaith celebrations in strengthening communal harmony, while Jain Swamiji P. Pujya Muniraj Malayprabh Sagar Ji M.Sa. spoke on justice and equity as universal principles across religions.

An interactive question-and-answer session enabled participants to engage directly with the speakers, encouraging deeper understanding and dialogue among the various faith communities.

In his felicitation address, Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Susainathan said that the teachings of Buddha and Basavanna continue to challenge society to transcend divisions and work towards dignity, justice and fraternity. Referring to the Catholic Church’s commitment to interreligious dialogue, he highlighted the spirit of the Second Vatican Council document Nostra Aetate, which encourages respect and collaboration with followers of other religions.

Fr. Vinay Kumar, Secretary of the KRCBC Inter-Religious Dialogue Commission, proposed the vote of thanks and expressed appreciation to the speakers, organisers and participants for contributing to the spirit of unity and fellowship.

The Buddha-Basavanna Namana programme concluded as a meaningful platform for dialogue and reflection, reaffirming the continuing relevance of the teachings of Buddha and Basavanna in promoting a more compassionate, peaceful and equitable society.

By Catholic Connect Reporter