Soka Gakkai leader Daisaku Ikeda dies at 95

Daisaku Ikeda, the prominent leader of Soka Gakkai, Japan's largest religious organization, and the founder of the international branch of Soka Gakkai International, has passed away at the age of 95. Ikeda, renowned for spreading Buddhist principles worldwide, played a pivotal role in religious and cultural spheres.

Under Ikeda's leadership, Soka Gakkai expanded its reach, engaging in various cultural and educational initiatives worldwide. He was also a prolific writer, contributing significantly to Buddhist literature and engaging in dialogues with notable intellectuals.

Ikeda's death, attributed to natural causes, marks the end of an era for Soka Gakkai. The organization has held a private funeral for him. He is remembered by his wife Kaneko, and sons Hiromasa and Takahiro. Plans for commemorative services will be announced, as Soka Gakkai and its international community mourn the loss of their leader.