About KIBSociety - Karmapa International Buddhist Society in B 19/20 Qutab Institutional Area, New Delhi

H.H. the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa’s speech on the KIBSociety's Inauguration - 11th March 2012
At Karmapa International Buddhist Institute, New Delhi

Good evening. I am extremely happy to be here today, to witness the auspicious opening of KIBS, the Karmapa Buddhist International Society. Genla (Prof. Sempa Dorje) had already mentioned more or less the main purpose of it, so it is quite clear. First of all, around 50 years ago, there was not that much of a need of an international base; a platform or a place to study such as this international institute, because Buddhism was very much well tucked in behind the Himalayas. The main source of Buddhist activities was always within the monastic sangha, as Genla mentioned. So there was no real need but basically, there was a gap. Nevertheless, the good thing about this 21st century is that these two worlds have come together and there are many exciting things to look forward to and it had already happened, is happening, and it will. We can prevent 2012 (the predictions of the end of the world), although we are living in it.

Realistically, I think it has also been the wish of my predecessor ever since he had set foot here in India, to have a proper institute. Of course at that time initially, it was like those institutes that existed in Tibet. But later on, with wider activities around the globe and seeing the interest in Buddhism around the world, his visions became larger. It was always one of his visions and dreams to have an international institute. That is one thing. Secondly, I think it is also the continuation of that motion, the momentum that was carried out by none other than my teacher, His Holiness Shamar Rinpoche. After all these years, it was finally realized. And it is something that we should all celebrate, be happy about and rejoice.

The Buddha Dharma, the knowledge that we have that was passed down from Buddha Shakyamuni until now is the pinnacle or the essence of education, the final education. This for example, is just one start; we have to envision more and more of this in the future. If we can do that, not only have we fulfilled the wishes of our predecessors, but also the wishes of the great Bodhisattvas and the great Buddhas. And we have also fulfilled our own wishes. That is why I think it is great and something to really rejoice about. I hope that it was clear and inspiring for all of you. It really is, for me. The moment I knew of it, the moment I found out when I was informed by Mirti about its approval, it was a very happy occasion due to the previously mentioned reasons. So, I hope that conditions will be there in every way. I wish, pray and aspire that all the positive conditions will come together for each and every one of you, and I hope that you or others will be able to support KIBS in whichever way. Once again, thank you very, very much.

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B-19/20 Qutab Institutional Area
New Delhi 110016
www.kibsociety.org
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