Day 1: Inaugural Session and Panel Discussions 

The conclave commenced at the India International Centre Annexe Building with a welcome address by Dr. Markandey Rai, Chairman of GPF India. He emphasized the importance of collective action in achieving interfaith unity, invoking the ancient wisdom of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family). The keynote address was delivered by Goswami Sushil Ji Maharaj, National Convener of the Sarva Dharma Sansad, who underscored the significance of listening to diverse faith perspectives and building universal values of brotherhood. The first panel discussion, moderated by Ms. Anjali Tyagi, focused on “Social Cohesion Through Interfaith Dialogue.” Esteemed panelists included Bhikkhu Sanghasena, President of the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre; Firoz A. Naeem, President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Delhi; Dr. Fr. Rajakumar Joseph S.J., Principal of Vidya Jyoti College of Theology; and H.H. Acharya Satyendra Narayan, President of the Confederation of World Religions. The discussion explored the rising polarization in society and the necessity of moving beyond tolerance to genuine collaboration. The second panel discussion, moderated by Ms. Shaivya Pathak, centered on “Shared Values, Oneness & Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.” Panelists included Marzaban Zaiwala, representative of the Delhi Parsi Anjuman; Swami Sarvalokananda Ji, Secretary of the Ramakrishna Mission, New Delhi; Prof. Shashi Bala, Indologist at Bhavan’s KM Munshi Centre for Indology; and Dr. M.D. Thomas, Founder of the Institute of Harmony and Peace Studies. This session examined the shared ethical and moral principles across faiths, emphasizing unity through common values and the daily practice of universal principles. 

The second day, hosted at the GPF India office in Paryavaran Complex, Saket, focused on empowering young change-makers. The session began with an introduction by Ms. Shaivya Pathak, followed by an ice-breaking activity led by Ms. Priya Raghav, fostering curiosity and shared learning among participants. The highlight was a workshop on “Skills for Interfaith Dialogue” conducted by Ms. Anjali Tyagi, equipping participants with practical communication strategies to bridge faith-based differences. A youth-led roundtable discussion on “Challenges and Solutions for Peacebuilding in a Multifaith Society,” facilitated by Ms. Shaivya and Ms. Anjali, encouraged young leaders to explore the role of faith in conflict resolution. The day concluded with an inspiring address by Dr. Markandey Rai, motivating youth to become proactive interfaith ambassadors. 

The third day marked the celebration of Mahakaruna Diwas 2025 at the India International Centre, in collaboration with Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre (MIMC, Ladakh), International Association of Educators for World Peace (IAEWP), Indian Institute of Ecology and Environment, Global Peace Foundation (GPF-India), and Mahakaruna Foundation, New Delhi. The event commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and the launch of “Mahakaruna – A Holistic Movement for Global Peace Through Compassion in Action,” co-authored by Dr. Priya Ranjan Trivedi and Bhikkhu Sanghasena. Prominent speakers, including Dr. Kiran Bedi, Dr. Priya Ranjan Trivedi, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, and Dr. Markandey Rai, addressed pressing global issues, particularly the urgent need for compassion-driven leadership. Bhikkhu Sanghasena delivered a thought-provoking address on integrating spirituality into governance and education, warning against the misuse of technology in the absence of compassion. 

Following the Mahakaruna Diwas celebrations, a Dhamma Talk and Guided Meditation session was organized with Venerable Bhante Y. Wimala, a revered Buddhist monk, spiritual teacher, and humanitarian. Bhante Wimala has dedicated his life to teaching, healing, and promoting peace worldwide, with significant contributions to disaster relief, education, healthcare, and social upliftment across Asia and Africa. His work has been praised by His Holiness the Dalai Lama for its simplicity, compassion, and relevance to modern life. The Dhamma Talk focused on the Buddhist way of life management and shared cultural heritage between Bharat and Sri Lanka. Key themes included Mitta (True Friendship), Contentment in Love, Compassion, and Meditation as a Path to Spirituality. Following the talk, Bhante Wimala led a guided meditation session, allowing participants to experience mindfulness and inner peace. The event was graced by distinguished guests, including Hasmukh Dawda, a prominent businessman and philanthropist active in Uganda and Kenya; Dr. Markandey Rai, Senior Advisor at UN-HABITAT and a key figure in global leadership and urban development; and Dr. Priyaranjan Trivedi, President of the World Spiritual Parliament and an influential educator shaping higher education policies. This session provided profound insights into Buddhist philosophy, fostering interfaith understanding, spiritual awareness, and a deeper appreciation of shared cultural values between Bharat and Sri Lanka. 

GPF India’s observance of World Interfaith Harmony Week successfully cultivated an environment of mutual learning and collaboration, reinforcing interfaith unity. Participants gained profound insights into various religious traditions, equipping them with the skills necessary for peacebuilding. The event strengthened interfaith collaboration among scholars, activists, and faith leaders, developing Mahakaruna University as a hub for education rooted in compassion. Advocates called for Mahakaruna Diwas to be recognized by the UN.