Japanese Buddhist Monk Calls for Global Peace Prayer at Historic Taxila Stupa

A 76-year-old Japanese Buddhist monk, Junsei Terasawa, has called on Buddhist monks and followers from around the world to gather at the historic Dharmarajika Stupa in Taxila for a collective prayer dedicated to global peace.

The appeal comes during his month-long pilgrimage to Pakistan’s renowned Buddhist heritage sites.

Message of Peace and Compassion

After offering prayers at the nearly 2,000-year-old Dharmarajika Stupa, Terasawa emphasized the importance of the Buddha’s teachings of compassion, non-violence, and reconciliation.

He said these values remain relevant today and can help inspire peaceful coexistence during times of global uncertainty and conflict.

According to Terasawa, Taxila has long been an important center for the spread of Buddhist teachings and continues to hold great historical and spiritual significance.

Pilgrimage Across Pakistan’s Buddhist Heritage

During his visit to Pakistan, Terasawa has toured several important Buddhist archaeological and religious sites across Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

His itinerary also includes visits to ancient monasteries, stupas, and archaeological remains in the Swat Valley, a region known for its rich Buddhist history.

Promoting Interfaith Harmony

Over the years, Junsei Terasawa has been involved in promoting peace through interfaith dialogue, non-violent initiatives, and humanitarian efforts in different parts of the world.

His work has focused on encouraging understanding, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence among communities.

Taxila’s Historical Importance

Speaking at the Dharmarajika Stupa, Terasawa described the site as one of the most significant locations in the Buddhist world.

He also highlighted the historical and cultural connections between ancient Gandhara and Japan, noting that Buddhist art and traditions in East Asia continue to reflect influences that originated in the Gandhara civilization.