Condolence Meeting for the Victims of the Pahalgam Terror Attack

A solemn condolence meeting was held on 27th April, 2025, at Ahindra Mancha Auditorium in Kolkata, in memory of the innocent lives lost in the recent terror attack in Pahalgam.

The sombre event was organized by Alipore Ashoke Buddha Vihar under the leadership of the Most Venerable Dikpal Mahathero, President of the All India Buddhist Bhikkhu Association, and was attended by more than 200 individuals from various professions, faiths, and walks of life, who came together in unity and grief.

Dr. S. K. Agarwal, Director of the International Institute of Lifestyle Medicine, was invited as the guest of honor and addressed the gathering with a heartfelt message of peace, resilience, and healing. In his remarks, Dr. Agarwal emphasized the need for society to come together to combat hatred and violence through compassion, dialogue, and collective effort.

The auditorium echoed with prayers and messages of unity as 21 Buddhist monks from different monasteries participated in the event, offering spiritual support and leading meditative chants for the peace of the departed souls. Their presence lent a profound sense of serenity and reinforced the spiritual strength that faith communities can bring in times of tragedy.

The Consul General of Myanmar (Burma) also attended the meeting, expressing solidarity with the people of India and condemning the barbaric act of terror. Among the distinguished guests was renowned actor Mr. Gagan Malik from Mumbai, who paid tribute to the victims and stressed the importance of promoting peace through both art and action. Members of the West Bengal Minority Commission, including Mr. Satpal Singh Ahluwalia, Mr. Scyrus Madan, Mr. Bikas Barua, Dr. Arunjyoti, and Mr. Mukul Bairagi, joined the gathering and conveyed their deepest sympathies. Their presence reflected the collective stand of minority communities in upholding harmony and rejecting all forms of extremism.

Religious leaders from various faiths also came forward to offer prayers and reflections, underscoring the shared human values that transcend religious boundaries. The atmosphere was one of quiet reflection, solidarity, and an unwavering commitment to peace. This gathering served not only as a tribute to the victims but also as a call for unity and resilience against violence. It sent a strong message that in the face of terror, society stands stronger together, bound by shared values of humanity, peace, and mutual respect.