6 a.m Each day begins with meditation. Even better is meditating with the chirping of birds in a garden at Somaiya Vidyavihar, an educational institution and campus.
8 a.m After a South Indian breakfast of idli (rice cakes) with sauce (chili sauce), I go to visit local Buddhist monasteries and pilgrimage sites.
8:30 a.m The first stop is the Chaityabhumi Stupa, a memorial to BR Ambedkarwho drafted the constitution for an independent India. In 1956, he led nearly half a million people from low-caste and outcaste communities to become Buddhists.
11 a.m I visit a temple founded by Ambedkar Buddhists in Ramabai Nagar District and meet members of the local community. Ambedkar’s Buddhists still face severe discrimination, so this is an opportunity to encourage them and express international solidarity on social justice issues.
2 p.m Navigating the chaos of Mumbai’s streets and waterways can be overwhelming, so it’s relaxing to take a break every now and then.
4 p.m After lunch, I meet with students and teachers at KJ Somaiya Center for Buddhist Studies at the University of Mumbai to explore the role of gender studies in Buddhism. We often hear people say, “Men and women are equal in Buddhism.” So why does gender inequality persist in Buddhist societies and institutions?
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See the previous episode of “A Day in Dharma”: A Day in Dharma with Jules Shuzen Harris, abbot of Soji Zen Center
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ambedkar,bhikkhuni,sakyadhita , It seems like you might have wanted to provide a specific prompt or request for assistance. Could you please clarify what you’re looking for? Whether it’s writing, brainstorming, or answering a question, I’m here to help!, #Day #Dharma #Ven,