The 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, one of the most revered Buddhist Lamas, was a multifaceted personality who influenced people as a parliamentarian and a diplomat, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said today.
Speaking at a programme here to mark the birth centenary year of the Buddhist saint, she noted that the Buddhist monk also worked for revival of Buddhism in Mongolia and is worshipped by many in that country.
"The Kushok Bakula, Lobzang Thubstan Chognor, worked in Mongolia at a difficult time and gave energy to the people through his teachings. He was not just a diplomat, but a saint who is still worshipped there," she said, citing her visit to the central Asian country.
The Kushok Bakula was Indian ambassador to Mongolia for ten years beginning 1990.
Mahajan also highlighted the Buddhist spiritual figure's contribution as a parliamentarian. He was a member of the fourth and fifth Lok Sabha from 1967 to 1977.
"He presented his views in the Parliament on the issues of development of his region, Laddakh, and on nationalism," she said.
According to Buddhism, Lord Buddha had 16 closest disciples. Bakula was one of them, who is believed to have been reincarnated to spread the message of his Lord.
The programme was also attended by Swami Awadhesanand Giri, chairman of topmost body of Hindu seers 'Achrya Sabha'.
"With their combined strength, the Hindu and Buddhist philosophy can give direction to the world which is tired of materialism," Giri said.
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