Honourable Rupa BK is a distinguished political leader and public servant in Nepal, currently serving as the State Minister for Forests and Environment. A dynamic and forward-thinking leader, she has emerged as a strong voice for environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and social inclusion in Nepal’s contemporary political landscape.Born into a family that values public service and community development, Rupa BK has dedicated her life to addressing the challenges faced by marginalized and underrepresented communities. Her journey in politics has been marked by integrity, purpose, and a deep commitment to fostering sustainable development that leaves no one behind. As State Minister, she has taken a proactive role in promoting environmental protection and biodiversity conservation. Her work focuses on aligning national policies with global environmental goals, particularly in areas such as climate adaptation, sustainable agriculture, forest preservation, and ecosystem restoration. She strongly advocates for the integration of indigenous knowledge and local participation in the planning and implementation of environmental programs. Minister Rupa BK has also been a vocal champion for women's empowerment and leadership. As a woman from a historically disadvantaged community, she brings a unique and powerful perspective to the table. Her efforts have helped pave the way for more inclusive governance, ensuring that the voices of women and marginalized groups are heard in decision-making processes at all levels. Through her participation in national and international forums, she has represented Nepal with grace and purpose, building partnerships and strengthening Nepal’s commitment to environmental stewardship on the global stage. Her leadership style is marked by humility, clarity of vision, and a passion for service. With a steadfast focus on environmental justice and social equity, Honourable Rupa BK continues to be an inspiration to many — especially young women — who see in her a role model for what dedicated public leadership can achieve. Her work today lays the foundation for a greener, fairer, and more resilient Nepal for generations to come .

His Excellency Deep Kumar Upadhyaya is a distinguished Nepali politician, and diplomat has been marked by a deep commitment for the better development and safeguarding the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini and the Greater Lumbini Area. He has served to enhance nations international cooperation, and the strengthening of bilateral relations, particularly between Nepal and its neighboring countries. Mr. Upadhyaya began his journey in social service with an earnest dedication to the development and democratic advancement of his country. As a senior member of the Nepali Congress, one of the major political parties in Nepal, he played a pivotal role in shaping national policies and promoting democratic values. He has served as a Federal Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Government of Nepal and most prominent diplomatic appointment came when he was entrusted with the role of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Nepal to India, a position that demanded both diplomatic finesse and strategic insight. During his tenure, he worked tirelessly to enhance the centuries-old ties between Nepal and India, focusing on economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and mutual development. Mr. Upadhyaya is widely respected for his intellectual depth, diplomatic acumen, and unwavering dedication to the progress of Nepal. His contributions have not only strengthened Nepal's foreign relations but have also served as a model of integrity and professionalism in public service. Throughout his life, His Excellency Upadhyaya has exemplified a rare blend of political leadership and diplomatic vision, earning him a place among Nepal's most respected statesmen.

Mr. Sajruddin Musalman is one of the dynamic and forward-thinking leaders of Nepal, playing a vital role in guiding Lumbini—the sacred birthplace of Lord Buddha— toward sustainable development, modernity, and spiritual preservation. As the Mayor of Lumbini Sanskritik Municipality, he has not only served as the voice of the local community but has also become a symbol of hope and progress, where cultural heritage and contemporary advancement go hand in hand. Born and raised in a multicultural environment where religious coexistence and community life intertwined naturally, Mr. Musalman developed an early sense of responsibility toward his homeland. Upon being elected mayor, he immediately initiated efforts to improve infrastructure, promote spiritual tourism, preserve religious heritage sites, and uplift the standard of living for local residents through targeted action plans. One of the hallmarks of his leadership has been a strategic vision for the local economy. He has emphasized the importance of building community based tourism models that not only generate employment but also protect the environment and uphold indigenous cultural values. Under his leadership, Lumbini has gradually emerged as an international destination, attracting not only Buddhist devotees but also peace seekers, scholars, and spiritual pilgrims from all over the world. Beyond local governance, Mr. Musalman has actively participated in international forums to advocate for global collaboration in preserving Lumbini as a heritage of humanity. He has consistently stated that Lumbini does not belong only to Nepal but is a spiritual legacy for the whole world—a sacred site from where the universal values of compassion, wisdom, and peace radiate to all humankind. In addition, he has shown deep commitment to public health and education. Collaborating with charitable organizations and development agencies, he has facilitated free health care initiatives and raised awareness on healthcare among underprivileged communities, especially among laborers and marginalized groups. He firmly believes that a truly developed society is one where every individual can access basic needs and live with dignity. Mr. Sajruddin Musalman’s leadership is not solely grounded in political ideals but is driven by a spirit of service and a vision of building a harmonious, prosperous, and inclusive society. He represents a new generation of Nepalese leadership—energetic, principled, close to the people, and deeply committed to a better future. Through his efforts and dedication, he continues to leave a profound mark, not only on Lumbini but also in the hearts of all who value peace, spirituality, and compassionate governance around the world.

Mr. Sanu Raja Shakya currently serves as the Member Secretary of the Lumbini Development Trust, a position he has held since October 2020 following his appointment by the Government of Nepal. In this capacity, he leads both national and international efforts to preserve and promote Lumbini—the sacred birthplace of Lord Buddha—as a global center of peace and pilgrimage. From 1996 to 2001, Mr. Shakya served at the Royal Thai Monastery in Lumbini, where he played a pivotal role in the construction and development of the monastery, fostering cultural and spiritual ties between Nepal and Thailand. Beyond his official duties, Mr. Shakya is a dedicated social, Buddhist, and linguistic activist, actively involved in various movements across Nepal. He has consistently championed cultural inclusivity, heritage conservation, and spiritual harmony. Through his unwavering commitment, he has significantly contributed to elevating Lumbini’s status on the global stage as a symbol of peace while safeguarding Nepal’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

Dr. Rajesh Kumar Rai is a respected forestry professional with an extensive career in academia, research, and environmental policy. Currently a Professor at the Institute of Forestry, Tribhuvan University in Nepal, he brings decades of experience and a global perspective to the field of sustainable natural resource management. He holds a PhD in Environmental Economics from Deakin University, Australia, and an MSc in Forestry awarded jointly by the University of Joensuu, Finland, and the University of Freiburg, Germany. Dr. Rai has held influential roles in both national and international institutions, including as a Senior Program Officer at RECOFTC in Bangkok and an Environmental Economist at SANDEE-ICIMOD in Nepal. He has also contributed to government task forces and policy initiatives, particularly in forest governance and environmental sustainability. His research spans a wide range of critical topics such as ecosystem service valuation, nature-based solutions, forest management, high-altitude pastoralism, and invasive species control. He has authored numerous publications in respected international journals, advancing scientific understanding in these areas. Beyond his academic and policy work, Dr. Rai has contributed to global environmental assessments, most notably the IPBES reports on invasive species and land degradation. He currently chairs the Social Forestry and Forest Management Subject Committee at the Institute of Forestry and serves as an expert advisor to the World Meteorological Organization on the socioeconomic benefits of environmental programs. Through his scholarship, leadership, and commitment to sustainable development, Professor Rai continues to inspire students, researchers, and environmental practitioners in Nepal and around the world.

 Mr. Gyanin Rai is a distinguished expert in cultural heritage management and religious tourism, with over two decades of unwavering dedication to the preservation and development of Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Holding an MBA in Religious Tourism and an MA in History, Culture, and Archaeology from Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal, Mr. Rai has combined academic excellence with practical leadership in the field of cultural conservation. For the past 22 years, he has served with distinction at the Lumbini Development Trust, an autonomous institution under the Government of Nepal responsible for managing, preserving, and promoting Lumbini and the Greater Lumbini Area. He currently holds the position of Senior Director and Head of the Administration and Management Division, as well as Chief of the Lumbini World Heritage Unit. Throughout his career, Mr. Rai has played a pivotal role in fostering international collaboration, advancing the global significance of Lumbini through partnerships and initiatives. He has contributed to numerous prestigious international projects, including the UNESCO-Japanese Funds-in-Trust project, the KOICA–Lumbini World Peace City project, and the ADB–South Asia Tourism Infrastructure Development Project. One of his notable achievements includes serving as convener in the nomination process of Tilaurakot–Kapilavastu as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition to project leadership, Mr. Rai has made significant scholarly contributions. He co-authored the UNESCO publication The Sacred Garden of Lumbini, contributed to the photobook “Lumbini, Nepal”, and coordinated the preparation of national documents on the Buddhist Circuits of Nepal. His numerous articles on Lumbini, tourism, and heritage have been published in national and international journals. Mr. Rai’s work reflects a deep commitment not only to cultural and heritage conservation, but also to socio- economic upliftment of local communities and the promotion of global peace through Buddhist values. Before joining the Trust, he also served at the Nepal Tourism Board, further enriching his experience in sustainable tourism and heritage promotion. Through his lifelong service, Mr. Gyanin Rai has emerged as a key figure in preserving the spiritual and historical legacy of Lumbini, fostering both national pride and international respect .

Born in 1987 near the sacred birthplace of Lord Buddha in Lumbini, Nepal, Mr. Arjun Kurmi has emerged as one of the region’s most committed environmental leaders and youth mobilizers. From an early age, he demonstrated a profound dedication to nature and social responsibility, becoming actively involved in conservation efforts during his school years. His passion for environmental and humanitarian work led him to serve at the Indreni Rural Development Centre in Rupandehi, where he played a vital role in peacebuilding campaigns aimed at rehabilitating victims of Nepal’s internal conflict. In July 2013, recognizing the urgent need to engage youth in environmental preservation and community empowerment, Mr. Kurmi founded Green Youth Lumbini (GYL). This nonprofit organization was established with the vision of conserving biodiversity, equipping local communities with livelihood skills, and inspiring young people to take an active role in sustainable development. His efforts quickly garnered national recognition. That same year, he was honored by Nepal’s Minister of Forests for his exemplary afforestation programs. In 2014, his continued dedication was acknowledged with the prestigious Young Conservation Leader Award from WWF Nepal, celebrating his numerous conservation initiatives and innovative approaches to youth engagement. Under Mr. Kurmi’s leadership, Green Youth Lumbini has grown into a dynamic network of over 660 youth members. The organization has implemented a wide range of impactful programs including sexual and reproductive health campaigns, weekly Sarus crane conservation initiatives, the “One Youth, Five Trees” plantation movement, weekly tree-planting drives, and educational workshops focused on environmental awareness and community health. The objectives of GYL are far-reaching yet focused: biodiversity conservation, youth empowerment, sustainable development, public health and hygiene, advocacy for youth rights, and the promotion of environmental consciousness. Each of these goals reflects Mr. Kurmi’s unwavering belief in the power of youth to lead transformative change. Through his tireless service, Mr. Arjun Kurmi has not only contributed significantly to the protection of Lumbini’s fragile ecosystem but has also inspired a new generation of young leaders committed to peace, sustainability, and the preservation of the natural and spiritual heritage of the Buddha’s birthplace. His work stands as a testament to what vision, compassion, and resilience can achieve in service of both people and the planet.

Venerable Thây Huyên Diệu is a proud gardener and renown international spiritual leader. Born in Bên Tre Province, Vietnam, he embarked on the Buddhist monastic path at a young age. He eventually received a scholarship to study abroad in France and received his Ph.D from the University of Sorbonne (France). After a period of being a professor teaching at universities and continuing doing “the Buddha’s work” in France, Venerable Thây Huyên Diệu founded two An Việt Nam Phật Quôc Tự Buddhist Monasteries in India and Nepal. Through many obstacles and challenges, he established the first Vietnamese temple in Bodhgaya, India, the sacred site where Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. Under his leadership, he was also instrumental in working with the government of Nepal and international Buddhist organizations and societies around the world in revitalizing the city of Lumbini, Nepal, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. His vision and leadership transformed Lumbini from a once deserted land into a thriving and more developed city of today. Venerable Thây Huyên Diệu established the first Vietnamese Buddhist monastery in Lumbini and mobilized the development of over 35 additional Buddhist temples representing various countries in this sacred site. During the development of the temple in Lumbini, Nepal experienced a bloody civil war that resulted in over 14,000 deaths. Venerable Thây Huyên Diệu was the key person in delivering a peaceful resolution ending this civil war. Venerable Thây Huyên Diệu currently the chairman of the International Buddhist Federation in Lumbini and the founder of two An Việt Nam Phật Quôc Tự (Việt Nam Buddhist Monastery) in Bodhgaya, India and Lumbini, Nepal. Venerable Thây Huyên Diệu has contributed immensely to the proliferation of Buddhism on a global scale. Despite many accolades and notoriety, he prefers to be viewed as a simple gardener who enjoys hands-on gardening work and philanthropic, community, and charity services.

Divine Mother Audrey E. Kitagawa, J.D., is a revered spiritual leader and global humanitarian who has devoted her life to the promotion of peace, spiritual awakening, and interfaith harmony. With a heart rooted in unconditional love and a deep commitment to service, she has tirelessly worked to build bridges of understanding among diverse faith traditions and to foster cultural and spiritual unity around the world. Originally trained in law and formerly a practicing attorney in Honolulu, Hawaii, Divine Mother Audrey transitioned from legal service to spiritual leadership, carrying with her the integrity of the legal profession and the compassion of a deeply awakened soul. She is the Founder and President of the International Academy for Multicultural Cooperation and serves as the Spiritual Head of the Light of Awareness International Spiritual Family. Through her teachings, guidance, and example, she has inspired countless individuals across the globe to embark on their own journeys of inner transformation, healing, and awakened living. On the international stage, Divine Mother Audrey has become a powerful voice for the dignity of life, justice, and the spiritual dimension of global challenges. She served as an Adviser to the United Nations Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, where she advocated for the protection of children affected by war and violence. In addition, she is a member of the inaugural Women’s Council of the United Nations Environment Programme’s Faith for Earth initiative, through which she champions faith-based environmental stewardship and the sacred responsibility of caring for our planet. Her leadership extends across many of the world’s foremost interfaith and humanitarian platforms. She is an Ambassador for Religions for Peace International and the United Nations Representative for United Religions Initiative. She also serves as the Chair of the Anti-Racism Initiative and the Co-Chair of the Gender Equality Working Group of the G20 Interfaith Forum. In all of these roles, she stands as a beacon of moral clarity, spiritual wisdom, and unwavering dedication to the common good. Divine Mother Audrey's extraordinary contributions have been recognized with some of the world’s most distinguished honors. She is a recipient of the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, a prestigious American award granted to individuals who exemplify the highest ideals of community service and cultural unity. In Ghana, she was conferred with the royal title of "Nekoso Hemaa" (Queen Mother of Development) in recognition of her humanitarian efforts, and a school has been named in her honor as a living legacy to her transformative work. Through her writings, public addresses, and deeply compassionate leadership, Divine Mother Audrey E. Kitagawa continues to inspire humanity to walk the path of peace, divine awareness, and sacred service. She embodies the living principles of love, justice, and unity, offering a guiding light in a time of global transformation and spiritual awakening. Her life stands as a testament to the power of one soul to touch the hearts of many and to bring healing to a world in need.

 The Venerable Junsei Terasawa, a devoted disciple of the Venerable Nichidatsu Fujii—founder of the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Order and close associate of Mahatma Gandhi—is a singular figure in the modern Buddhist world, embodying the spirit of pacifism, spiritual service, and global responsibility. Born in Japan on September 15, 1950, and ordained in 1970, Rev. Terasawa was entrusted with the sacred mission of reviving the Dharma lineage of the Saddharma Pundarika Sutra (Lotus Sutra) in India, a task rooted in the prophecy of the Buddha himself. After five years of deep spiritual discipline in India and Nepal, he embarked on a lifelong peace mission across continents. Central to his vision is the message of nonviolence and interfaith harmony, made manifest through the construction of Peace Pagodas around the world—symbols of unity and sacred aspiration, echoing the legacy of Emperor Ashoka. From organizing peace initiatives in Europe during the Cold War to leading marches across Asia and conflict zones, his life has been a pilgrimage of compassion. He was instrumental in the establishment of Peace Pagodas in Milton Keynes (1979) and London (1985), and carried the sacred relics of the Buddha to the United Nations General Assembly in 1988. His commitment has taken him to the heart of crises—in Chechnya, Iraq, Korea, and Ukraine—where he walked and prayed for peace. In Central Asia, since 1991, he has worked to revive spiritual culture, fostering Buddhist communities and intercultural dialogue in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and beyond. He supported Ukraine’s Orange Revolution (2004) and the Revolution of Dignity (2014) through peace marches and spiritual presence, and continues his work there amid ongoing conflict. In 2025, his mission of cultural and spiritual renewal led him to guide pilgrimages retracing the ancient Gandhara civilization, linking past and present through the light of the Dharma. An author as well as an activist, his major works include Dispelling the Darkness in Living Beings (1997), Into the New Age without Wars and Violence (1999), Global Awakening (2006), Territory of Immortality (2015), and Life is an Eternal Journey (2020), each expressing a profound call to inner transformation and world peace.

 Venerable Dr. Ashin Ottamathara was born on Sunday, October 26, 1969, at 9:10 PM in Katha Town, Sagaing Region, Myanmar. As the eldest son in his family, he was raised with a strong foundation in education and displayed an early spirit of perseverance and learning. In 1992, he graduated with a B.A. (Honors) in English from Yangon University and later launched a successful business venture known as “Aung Store,” which grew to three branches with over 100 employees. However, in late 1999, his life took a transformative turn when he began practicing Vipassana meditation at Insein Monastery. After several meditation retreats, he decided to renounce all his possessions and dedicate his life fully to the path of Dhamma. On October 21, 2002, he was ordained as a monk under the guidance of Venerable U Nyaya Sagara Sayadaw in Yangon. From that moment, his mission of serving the Dhamma truly began. In 2007, he founded the first Thabarwa Center on 45th Street, followed by the Thanlyin Thabarwa Center in 2008, dedicated to caring for the elderly, sick, and destitute. His vision expanded further with the founding of Metta Dhamma Villages in 2012 and 2014, providing free housing for thousands of families, as well as monastic schools, libraries, and Dhamma hospitals. Over more than two decades, he has established dozens of Thabarwa Centers across Myanmar and internationally— ranging from addiction recovery and rescue centers to Buddhist educational institutions and free healthcare facilities. Notably, during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, the Konkho Dhamma Hospital treated over 1,500 patients nationwide, a remarkable act of compassionate service. Today, Thabarwa Centers have expanded to the USA, Italy, Taiwan, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and India, embodying a global spirit of compassion and mindful action. Beyond social service, Venerable Ashin Ottamathara is also a champion of peacebuilding. Since 2021, he has engaged in dialogue with political and military leaders to promote lasting peace in Myanmar and beyond.

Moulana, Mohammad Nashim Mushalman is a respected Islamic scholar and religious leader known for his dedication to promoting peace, compassion, and interfaith harmony. With over 15 years of service to his community, he has become a prominent figure in fostering spiritual growth and understanding among diverse religious traditions. Born and raised in a region rich in cultural and spiritual heritage, Moulana Nashim committed himself to the study and practice of Islamic teachings from a young age. Under the guidance of esteemed scholars, he developed a deep understanding of the Quran and Hadith, which he now imparts to his followers with clarity and wisdom. As a spiritual leader, Moulana Nashim emphasizes the importance of unity, tolerance, and mutual respect among all faiths. He actively participates in interfaith dialogues and community initiatives aimed at building bridges between different religious communities. His efforts have been instrumental in creating a more inclusive and harmonious society. In addition to his spiritual work, Moulana Nashim is involved in various social welfare programs, including providing education to underprivileged children, supporting healthcare initiatives, and advocating for environmental sustainability. His holistic approach to leadership reflects his commitment to serving humanity in all aspects of life. Through his teachings and actions, Moulana Mohammad Nashim continues to inspire individuals to lead lives rooted in compassion, understanding, and service to others.

Pandit Manoj Kumar Mishra is respected spiritual leader and priest based in southern Nepal. He resides in Ward No. 4 of Lumbini Cultural Municipality, the sacred birthplace of Lord Shakyamuni Buddha. Currently, he serves as the Chairman of the Shri Ram Janaki Temple, a significant spiritual center in the region. For over 15 years, he has been dedicated to promoting the values of peace, compassion, and deep religious understanding within his community. Under his leadership, the temple has become a hub for interfaith and spiritual activities, fostering cultural and religious harmony between Hinduism and Buddhism in the Indo-Nepal border region. Pandit Mishra is especially beloved by young people for his commitment to spiritual education, regularly organizing talks, meditation sessions, and sharing insights on the moral and spiritual path. He is also actively involved in interfaith dialogue and cultural preservation, helping to sustain the rich spiritual heritage of Lumbini.

Venerable Sumangalo Shakya Putta is a revered Buddhist meditation master and missionary, widely recognized as the founder of the Sariputra Foundation. He has devoted his life to spreading the teachings of the Buddha and fostering understanding among the diverse traditions of Buddhism. Born in Nepal, Venerable Sumangalo Shakya Putta entered monastic life at a young age and pursued his spiritual path through dedicated study and practice in both the Theravada and Mahayana traditions. Under the guidance of many eminent meditation teachers, he developed a profound and insightful vision of unity and harmony among the various schools of Buddhist thought. With a heartfelt aspiration to serve the community and spread the Dhamma, he established the Sariputra Foundation a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the study, practice, and dissemination of Buddhism worldwide. The foundation focuses on providing Dhamma resources, organizing meditation retreats, seminars, and educational programs for people of all backgrounds, with a special emphasis on empowering the younger generation. Venerable Sumangalo Shakya Putta is also well known for his efforts to bridge gaps between different Buddhist communities, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation. He believes that unity and dialogue among traditions are essential for the preservation and flourishing of Buddhism in the modern world. Through the Sariputra Foundation, he has initiated numerous humanitarian projects, including support for the underprivileged, the construction of schools and health centers in underserved areas, and active engagement in charitable work—reflecting the spirit of compassion and selfless service embodied in the monastic path. With unwavering dedication and a far-reaching vision, Venerable Sumangalo Shakya Putta has become a source of profound inspiration for many on the spiritual path, significantly contributing to the growth and global reach of the Buddha’s teachings.

Rev. Jisay Kumar Maharana, a devoted Christian priest from India, arrived in Lumbini, Nepal, in May 1999 with a clear calling: to serve the community through education and social outreach. Guided by unwavering faith and a deep sense of mission, he committed his life to uplifting the underprivileged—especially girls in rural areas—through the transformative power of education. In 2002, he made his first attempt to establish a school, but faced failure and disappointment. Yet, he refused to give up. With nothing but hope, prayer, and Rs. 5,000, he began anew in 2003, launching a small nursery class with just 35 students. The conditions were humble: he lived under a hut, and his wife had to travel back to India for work to support the family financially. Life was difficult, filled with hardship and uncertainty, but their faith never wavered. Through decades of sacrifice and perseverance, Rev. Maharana remained steadfast in his belief that God would provide, and indeed, Providence guided his mission. Over the course of 26 years, he transformed a modest dream into a reality: Nav Jeevan School, now a well-respected educational institution in Lumbini, offering education up to Grade 10. Today, Nav Jeevan is widely recognized as one of the leading schools in the region—an enduring testament to his faith, resilience, and commitment to community development. Rev. Maharana’s journey is a powerful example of what one individual can achieve through faith, compassion, and unwavering dedication. His life continues to inspire many, and his work has left a lasting impact on generations of children who now have access to quality education and a brighter future.