The Rotary Club of Columbus recently held a unique program that highlighted the promotion of global peace and compassion through the ancient cultural tradition of the Mystical Arts of Tibet. River Center Board Chair Stephanie Hunter introduced the presentation.

The featured program was the return of Tibetan monks to the RiverCenter, where they spent a week creating the “Mandala of the Buddha of Compassion.” This intricate sand art installation, designed to represent the universe, was constructed in the River Center lobby, drawing hundreds of visitors throughout their residency.

The monks shared the deep spiritual significance behind the Mandala, teaching the audience that its creation serves as a reminder of the impermanence of life and the importance of non-attachment. Each Mandala requires 18 months of training to visualize in 3D before it is carefully brought to life by the monks.

The program concluded on Saturday with a special ceremony marking the Mandala’s completion, followed by its symbolic destruction. This ritual, demonstrating the temporary nature of material things, was attended by many. The sand from the destroyed Mandala was then ceremoniously carried to the Chattahoochee River, where it was released into the flowing waters. This act symbolized the spread of the Mandala’s message of peace and compassion into the world. Attendees were also given a small vial of sand from the Mandala as a personal keepsake, extending the message of peace into their own lives.

This impactful event beautifully illustrated how ancient traditions can foster global understanding and harmony, furthering the Rotary Club’s mission of promoting peace and goodwill worldwide.