The golden spires of the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion provided the backdrop for a historic gathering on Saturday, March 21, as Buddhist leaders and scholars from across the globe converged for “The Buddhist Path of Compassion to World Peace” symposium.

The full-day event was held in honor of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday and to celebrate the international “Year of Compassion”. Organized by the Tibet Information Office and the Great Stupa, the symposium sought to explore how ancient wisdom can address modern global conflicts through dialogue and shared prayer.

A Local Welcome for Global Wisdom The day commenced with a traditional Welcome to Country, acknowledging the Dja Dja Wurrung people as the traditional custodians of the land. Following the welcome, the air was filled with the sounds of sacred chants as prayers were offered from the Theravadin, Mahayana, and Vajrayana traditions.

Ian Green OAM, Chairman of the Great Stupa, opened the proceedings alongside Maree Edwards MP, Speaker of the Victorian Parliament, and Karma Singye, representing the Dalai Lama. The keynote address was delivered by Geshe Lhakdor, the former translator to His Holiness, who spoke to a packed plenary session on the central theme of compassion.

Peace Starts Within A highlight of the afternoon was an address by Ven. Ronrawee, Representing the Dhammakaya Communities in Australia and a leader in the Thai Sangha. With over 26 years of service in Australia, Ven. Ronrawee emphasized that the foundation of a peaceful society is the creation of “quality humans”.

He introduced the audience to the concept of “Right View” (Samma Ditthi) and the “10 Paramis” (perfections), such as giving, morality, and patience. “World peace must begin with inner peace in the heart of every individual,” Ven. Ronrawee noted, inviting attendees to join in a collective meditation for all living beings.

A Hub for Compassion The symposium featured a diverse roster of international speakers, including Most Ven. Kallanchiye Rathanasiri Thero from Sri Lanka and Chi Kwang Sunim, an active leader in Australian interfaith movements. Two panel discussions held in the afternoon allowed local residents and visitors to engage directly with the monastics, reflecting on how to build sustainable social harmony.

As the event concluded at 4:00 pm, the message was clear: while the challenges facing the world are great, the path to peace is paved with the “mighty compassion” celebrated at the Great Stupa this weekend.