Recognizing Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muni Ji's Contributions to Peace

Floor Speech

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Mr. FITZPATRICK of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding global interfaith leader, Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muni Ji. For the last 30 years, Acharya Lokeshji has been an advocate for communal harmony, non-violence, peace, and mutual cooperation.

Born in 1961 in northwest India, Acharya Lokeshji studied Jain, Buddhist, and Vedic philosophy from an early age, and left home at the age of 22 to take initiation into Jainism. After receiving the title of Acharya, one of the highest honors in Jainism, Acharya Lokeshji travelled the world and authored dozens of books to reflect on the principles of religious harmony and unity in diversity. He is also outspoken on critical issues such as environmental protection and substance use disorder.

Acharya Lokeshji's brave actions back up his doctrine of non- violence. In 2013, while on a tour of London, he rushed back to India to assist victims of a deadly riot between Hindus and Muslims. Prior to that, he resolved a Sikh religious dispute in the Punjab region of India. As a capstone to his initiatives, Acharya Lokeshji also recently dedicated India's first 'World Peace Center' in Gurugram, one of the country's largest cities. These examples all serve as a testament of Acharya Lokeshji's ability to put his principles into practice.

We are all grateful for Acharya Lokeshji's dedication to interfaith dialogue and peace. His selfless service is an incredible example of global citizenship, and we wish him success in his continued work.

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