PM engages in Kumbh diplomacy with Sirisena

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday unveiled the 'Simhastha Declaration' at the Kumbh Mela in Ujjain in the presence of Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena.

The 51-point universal message of “Right way of living and doing” forms the theme of the declaration.

Addressing the gathering at a conference, which has also been described as a “Vichar Kumbh” on the sidelines of the Kumbh Mela at this Madhya Pradesh town, the prime minister described this convention as the birth of a new effort.

He said this declaration will mark the start of a new discourse not only in India but around the world.

He said this was a modern edition of what might have happened in ancient times, when thought-leaders of society would gather at the sites of Kumbh melas, to reflect and provide new vision to society.

"We belong to a tradition where even a bhikshuk [beggar] says, “may good happen to the person who gives me and also to the person who does not,” the prime minister said.
Modi said a “holier than thou” attitude is taking people towards conflicts. “Let’s look within and see how we can grow,” he said.

The Sri Lankan President unveiled the statue of Angarika Dharmapala, who played a major role in the revival of Buddhism in India, at Sanchi.

He praised the efforts made by the Indian government to secure and develop Buddhist archaeological sites.

“Since our two countries have had extremely intimate bilateral relations for centuries, I consider this invitation as a firm endorsement of goodwill and friendly attitude to each other,” Sirisena said.

Modi suggested that a ‘Vichar Kumbh’ should be held every year to discuss issues such as afforestation and education of the girl child.