More than 50 Dalits Convert to Buddhism in Udupi

More than 50 Dalits Convert to Buddhism in Udupi

Udupi: More than 50 Dalits from Udupi converted to Buddhism on the occasion of Dr B R Ambedkar’s 64th Dhamma Chakra Pravartan DayDiwas on October 19.

The Conversion was held in the presence of Sugathapala Bhantheji Buddhist Monk of Jeevan Buddha Vihar Kollegal, Mysore.

Sugathapala Bhantheji Buddhist Monk performed Buddha Puja and offered Dharmopadesha to the Dalits as per Buddhist scriptures. All the converted men and women took an oath that they will try to inculcate the values taught by Dr B R Ambedkar.

Speaking to media persons, Dalit leader Sundar said, “Those who are facing problems in the Hindu community converted to Buddhism. This is not the first instance where Dalits converted to Buddhism in Udupi District. Many Dalit leaders and their family members have already embraced Buddhism in the district”, he said.

Shyam Raj Birthi, Narayana Manoor, Shekar Hejamadi, Shekhar Havanje, Shambhu Master, Pushpakar, Manjunath Giliyar, Shyam Sundar Thekkate and others were present.