[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 60 (Tuesday, April 9, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E318]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     RECOGNIZING HIS HOLINESS DR. VASANTH VIJAYJI MAHARAJ FOR HIS 
                            ACCOMPLISHMENTS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. RAJA KRISHNAMOORTHI

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, April 9, 2024

  Mr. KRISHNAMOORTHI. Mr. Speaker, I wish to recognize His Holiness Dr. 
Vasanth Vijayji Maharaj for his lifetime dedication to promoting peace, 
spirituality, and brotherhood.
  At a young age, His Holiness committed himself to the teachings of 
non-violence, meditation, and religious unity. Accordingly, he has 
organized numerous events to educate people on moral integrity, 
sustainable environmental practices, and healthy lifestyle choices to 
improve societal well-being.
  His Holiness has also worked to combat poverty and homelessness 
throughout India by organizing public gatherings and events. 
Collectively, his events have helped to distribute clothing items and 
food to more than 15,000 individuals in need.
  Notably, His Holiness's movement for non-violence has received 
international recognition and engagement. In 2005, he organized the 
Historic Peace March in India, bringing together practitioners of 
multiple religions to promote unity. He also organized Vasanth Vizag, 
in which over 750,000 people gathered to advocate for peaceful conflict 
resolution. In 2008, he held the World Peace Festival where attendees 
participated in a candle lighting ceremony to signify harmony between 
countries around the world. His Holiness's commendable efforts to unify 
diverse peoples through shared values transcend national boundaries.
  At all of these events, His Holiness showcased his unique approach to 
cultivating mutual respect and understanding between people by 
highlighting what they have in common. His vision is for teachers, 
parents, children, and policymakers to work together to combat social 
injustices. As a result of his teachings and guidance, his millions of 
followers have established over 100 peace centers and charitable trusts 
across the world.
  His Holiness's efforts to promote interstate and interfaith 
cooperation have been recognized by organizations worldwide. In 2009, 
he was appointed as Diplomatic Counsellor of India by the International 
Parliament for Safety and Peace and given the prestigious title of 
Ambassador of Peace by the Universal Peace Federation. His Holiness was 
also nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize to recognize the impact he has 
had throughout the world.
  His Holiness has empowered and uplifted countless individuals 
physically and spiritually, and it is for that impact, Mr. Speaker, 
that I wish to extend my gratitude and appreciation to His Holiness Dr. 
Vasanth Vijayji Maharaj.

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