“A Practice of Self-Discipline” — Monk Dr. Chandrakitti
Ghatsila: Sona Devi University, Ghatsila, organized a special informative and inspirational programme at the Swami Vivekananda Auditorium on the topic “Significance of Mantra Chanting in Buddhist Studies” under the Department of Buddhist Studies. The objective of the programme was to introduce students and teachers to the rich knowledge tradition of Buddhist philosophy and various dimensions of mantra chanting, meditation, mental peace, compassion, loving-kindness, self-discipline and positive thinking.
During the programme, Buddhist philosophy was discussed not merely as a religious or spiritual subject but also from its philosophical, ethical, psychological and social perspectives. The speakers observed that in today’s fast-paced lifestyle, mental concentration, patience, self-control and positive thinking are becoming increasingly important. In this context, the meditation- and self-discipline-based traditions of Buddhist philosophy can be useful for the personality and intellectual development of students.
Mantra Chanting Explained as a Practice of Concentration and Self-Discipline
The programme was moderated by Mrs. Archana Singh, Assistant Registrar. Introducing the theme, she said that in Buddhist Studies, mantra chanting can be viewed not merely as a religious ritual but also as an important method of concentration, meditation, compassion, mental discipline and spiritual practice.
She explained that the significance of mantra repetition lies not merely in its pronunciation but in the awareness and concentration maintained by the mind during the process. When a person chants a mantra mindfully, their attention repeatedly returns to the present moment. In this way, mantra chanting can serve as a means of practicing meditation and self-awareness.
Monk Dr. Chandrakitti Introduced Students to Spiritual and Mental Peace Through Mantra Chanting
The chief speaker of the programme, Monk Dr. Chandrakitti, Head, Department of Buddhist Studies, Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, addressed the students and teachers in detail on Buddhist philosophy and the significance of mantra chanting.
Through a practical session of mantra chanting, he introduced the participants to various dimensions of peace, awareness, concentration, spiritual consciousness, knowledge and positive thinking. He explained that the sound, rhythm and continuity of a mantra can help stabilize the mind and provide direction to one’s attention.
He clarified that mantra chanting should not be viewed merely as the mechanical repetition of words. It requires a combination of awareness, concentration, feeling and self-discipline. When mantra chanting is practiced mindfully, an individual can develop the ability to observe thoughts and emotions with greater clarity.
Various Dimensions of Mantra Chanting in Buddhist Studies Discussed
Monk Dr. Chandrakitti presented various aspects of mantra chanting before the students in a simple and practical manner.
1. Concentration of the Mind:
He explained that the natural tendency of the mind is to constantly wander among different thoughts and subjects. Continuous repetition of a mantra provides practice in focusing the mind on a single point. This can help create a conducive mental environment for meditation.
2. Mental Peace and Balance:
Rhythmic chanting can help a person slow down the flow of thoughts and develop inner stability. He said that regular meditation and mindful mantra chanting can be understood as practices for mental peace and positive thinking.
3. Compassion and Loving-Kindness:
Compassion and loving-kindness hold special significance in Buddhist philosophy. He explained that in various Buddhist traditions, several mantras are associated with compassion, loving-kindness and the welfare of all living beings. Citing “Om Mani Padme Hum” as an example, he explained that in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, this mantra is associated with the compassion of Avalokiteshvara.
4. Meditation and Spiritual Discipline:
Mantra chanting can encourage regular practice, patience and discipline. He said that the purpose of spiritual practice is not external display but the development of awareness and self-discipline within the individual.
5. Symbolic and Cultural Significance:
He explained that the role of mantras varies across different schools of Buddhism. In particular, mantras have traditionally formed an important part of meditation, spiritual practice and religious rituals in the Vajrayana Buddhist tradition.
6. Relationship Between Sound and Mind:
He stated that the sound, rhythm and repetition of a mantra can serve as a means of focusing the mind on the present moment. This process can be understood both in the context of spiritual beliefs and as a practice of meditation and mental concentration.
Vice-Chancellor Honours Monk Dr. Chandrakitti
During the programme, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua felicitated the chief speaker, Monk Dr. Chandrakitti. The Vice-Chancellor said that the university is continuously making efforts to introduce students to various knowledge traditions, philosophies and schools of thought.
He stated that such programmes help students move beyond the boundaries of classroom learning and develop a broader humanistic and philosophical perspective.
Dr. Shiv Chandra Jha Felicitates Shri G. M. Wankhede
On the occasion, Shri G. M. Wankhede, Retired Manager, Union Bank of India, Nagpur, was present as a distinguished guest. He participated in the programme and encouraged the students and members of the university community.
Dr. Shiv Chandra Jha, Head, Department of Political Science, felicitated Shri G. M. Wankhede by presenting him with an angavastram. Dr. Jha said that the participation of experienced and senior personalities in the university’s academic programmes is inspiring for students. Their experiences and perspectives on life provide the younger generation with valuable learning opportunities.
Education Must Be Accompanied by Mental and Moral Development: Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana
Registrar Dr. Nit Nayana said that the university is not limited to providing curriculum-based education but is also committed to the holistic development of students.
She stated that students today face several social and mental challenges along with academic competition. In such circumstances, an understanding of meditation, self-discipline, positive thinking and human values can help students develop a more balanced perspective.
She said that concepts such as compassion, loving-kindness, non-violence, peace and self-awareness in Buddhist philosophy are also relevant to contemporary society. She urged students not to restrict knowledge to examinations and degrees but to incorporate it into their conduct and life values.
Study of Knowledge Traditions Broadens Students’ Perspectives: Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua said that the fundamental objective of the university is to provide students with quality education along with a broad perspective on knowledge. India’s philosophical tradition is extremely rich, and Buddhist philosophy constitutes an important part of it.
He said that Buddhist philosophy has influenced discussions at the global level on peace, compassion, loving-kindness, self-discipline and human values. Students should study such knowledge traditions so that they develop the ability to question, reflect and understand different perspectives.
He added that understanding mantra chanting and meditation does not simply mean learning about a religious practice; it also involves understanding the relationship between the mind, thoughts, concentration and self-discipline.
Chancellor Shri Prabhakar Singh Motivates Students
Chancellor Shri Prabhakar Singh, while motivating the students, said that the true purpose of education is not merely to obtain certificates or degrees but to develop knowledge, wisdom, discipline, sensitivity and a sense of social responsibility within an individual.
He said that in the present era, along with technological and material development, it is equally important to maintain mental peace and human sensitivity. Buddhist philosophy inspires individuals toward introspection, compassion, loving-kindness and self-restraint.
Shri Singh stated that such informative programmes at the university connect students with India’s knowledge traditions while also developing their capacity for broader thinking. He encouraged students to approach every subject with curiosity, reasoning and an open mind.
Call to Students
Chancellor Shri Prabhakar Singh called upon the students to connect knowledge with life, make discipline a part of their daily routine, and understand their responsibilities toward society and the nation with a positive outlook.
He encouraged students to adopt habits that can help them become mentally strong, socially sensitive and ethically responsible citizens. He urged them to study Indian philosophy and knowledge traditions and make efforts to incorporate the human values contained within them into their conduct.
He reiterated that knowledge becomes meaningful when it brings positive change to an individual’s life and serves as a means of contributing to the broader welfare of society. He emphasized that developing values, sensitivity and social awareness alongside knowledge is an important responsibility of the university.
Programme Concludes in an Enriching Academic Environment
During the programme, students had the opportunity to experience mantra chanting and gain a direct understanding of various concepts related to Buddhist philosophy and mantra practice. The programme added a positive dimension of spiritual and philosophical reflection to the academic environment of the university.
All Deans, Heads of Departments, faculty members, staff, students and other members of the university community were present at the programme. The participants listened with keen interest to the views and insights shared by the chief speaker, Monk Dr. Chandrakitti
The programme concluded with a message of knowledge, peace, compassion, positive thinking and self-discipline. The occasion provided students with an opportunity to understand that education is not limited to textbook knowledge but is also a continuous process of developing the mind, thoughts, conduct and overall outlook toward life.
