People in China realising I’m not in search of independence however significant autonomy for Tibet, says the Dalai Lama

Tibetan non secular chief the Dalai Lama on Thursday mentioned an increasing number of folks in China are starting to understand that he’s not in search of “independence” however significant autonomy and preservation of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.

Advocating decision to all disputes by dialogue, he asserted that every one human beings are equal and they should rise above the narrow-minded method of “my nation, my ideology”, which is the principle set off for fights amongst folks.

The Dalai Lama arrived right here to a heat welcome by his followers, who turned up in massive numbers regardless of heavy rains. This was his first go to exterior Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh within the final two years. He is prone to go to Ladakh on Friday.

“Some Chinese hardliners consider me a separatist and a reactionary and always criticize me. But now, more Chinese are realising that the Dalai Lama is not seeking independence and only wishing China (to give) meaningful autonomy (to Tibet) and (ensure) preservation of Tibetan Buddhist culture,” the 87-year-old spiritual leader told reporters.

Asked about China’s objection to his visit, the Dalai Lama said, “This is common. The Chinese individuals are not objecting… an increasing number of Chinese are exhibiting curiosity in Tibetan Buddhism. Some of their students are realising that Tibetan Buddhism could be very scientific. Things are altering.”

The Dalai Lama, whose real name is Tenzin Gyatso, received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 and is feted worldwide for his advocacy of independence for Tibet and other causes.

ALSO READ| PM Modi wished Dalai Lama on birthday, first public acknowledgement since 2015

Earlier this month, Beijing criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for greeting the Dalai Lama on his 87th birthday, saying India should stop using Tibet-related issues to interfere in China’s internal affairs. However, India rejected China’s criticism and asserted that it is a consistent policy to treat the Dalai Lama as an honoured guest of the country.

The spiritual leader’s visit to Ladakh, where he is likely to spend over a month, is expected to rile China further as it comes amid the lingering military standoff between Indian and Chinese troops at several friction points in eastern Ladakh.

“I’m leaving for Ladakh tomorrow (Friday) to participate in some programme. The climate didn’t cooperate,” the Dalai Lama said.

ALSO READ| The purpose of life is to be happy: The Dalai Lama

He expressed displeasure over the prevailing crisis in Sri Lanka.

“My essential message to the folks is that all of us are brothers and sisters and there’s no level in preventing… the struggle is triggered by narrow-mindedness once they begin considering (issues) like ‘my nation, my ideology’,” he said.

Humanity demands that “we reside collectively, whether or not we prefer it or not. There may be some issues like in a household which may be solved by talks,” the Dalai Lama added.

— ENDS —