'Ananda Samhita' released in Lumbini

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Aug. 17: Motivational writer and journalist Ghanashyam Khadka's book 'Ananda Samhita' was released in Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, on Thursday. 

Buddhist Guru Shyalpa Tenzin Rinponche, Member of House of Representatives Santosh Pariyar, Lumbini Buddhist University Registrar Dr. Tilakram Acharya, Dr. Sharada Poudel, Bimal Khadka, Jyoti Netuwa and writer Khadka himself jointly released the book.

The speakers mentioned that the book provides insights into how to attain joy through peace, well-being, and compassion, as taught by Buddha. 

Buddhist Guru Shyalpa Tenzin Rinponche opined that a lack of clarity in life often leads people to get entangled in various complications. "Khadka's book comes as a companion in attaining clarity in life," he added, "It confirms the author's deep understanding of the subject matter." 

Dr. Tilakram Acharya, Registrar of Lumbini Buddhist University, noted that the author has interpreted Buddha's teachings in various ways throughout the book. "Without having Buddha in your heart, you cannot bring His teachings into practice or express them in writing," Acharya said. "It is difficult to find books on Buddha's philosophy in Nepali," he said, "Most available books are translations from other languages." 

Associate Professor of Lumbini Buddhist University Dr. Sharada Poudel described the 18-chapter book as philosophical and spiritual. "The book not only explains suffering," she said, "but also successfully guides readers on how to attain joy. It focuses on the path to overcoming suffering." 

Lawmaker Santosh Pariyar remarked that the emergence of philosophical thought related to the Buddha through nonfiction was noteworthy. He said that Khadka's book, despite its simplicity, could help even those unfamiliar with Buddhist philosophy understand it. 

Writer Khadka explained his inspiration for writing the book and his devotion to the Buddha, stating that the Buddha has been a source of inspiration and love for him. Also a trainer of mindfulness meditation, Khadka said, "For me, the Buddha is both inspiration and love; a state of understanding that can exist within anyone." 

Published by Alchemy Publications, the 232-page book has 18 chapters which simplifies Buddha's philosophy with simple but prolific language. Each chapter of the book offers a simple yet profound exploration of achieving happiness.