Vishwa Shanti Stupa, Rajgir – A Symbol of Peace and Spirituality Vishwa Shanti Stupa, or World Peace Pagoda, is perhaps the most vital and peaceful of Rajgir’s landmarks. Constructed to represent universal harmony and peace, it draws millions of tourists and pilgrims alike, Buddhists and non-Buddhists, peace-lovers and everyone from across the globe. Historical Background It was constructed in the 1960s by the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist sect, a Japanese peace organization, under the leadership of Japanese Buddhist monk Nichidatsu Fujii and an adherent of the non-violent teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. The stupa’s construction is an international message…