New Delhi, India, 26 December 2012 – On his way to the teaching venue this morning, His Holiness the Dalai Lama stopped off to attend a celebration of the Golden Jubilee of the Samyeling Tibetan Settlement at New Aruna Nagar, popularly known as Majnu ka tilla. He was received at the gate of TCV Day School by the Settlement Officer, Mr Lekyi Dorjee Tsangla and offered a traditional Tibetan welcome. He briefly took his seat on the throne to receive the customary threefold mandala offering before moving to a chair closer to the front of the stage. Tea and sweet rice were served while the Settlement Officer made his report, which was followed by a speech by the Sikyong, Dr Lobsang Sangay.
He began by stating that Tibetans in Tibet as well as in exile retain a strong spirit. Alluding to the 95 self-immolations that have taken place recently in Tibet he said the principal cause was the sense of desperation among Tibetans there. Despite the Chinese authorities trying to pin the blame for instigating them on the exile community, the Sikyong felt there is an increasing international acknowledgement that it is the way China has dealt with Tibet that has led to this tragedy.
He recalled that during his own six years as a student in Delhi he often joined members of Samyeling Settlement in demonstrations on behalf of the Tibetan struggle. He counselled those who demonstrate today to observe non-violence and remain within the law. He described the Tibetan people as supremely fortunate to have a leader of His Holiness’s great standing in the world and declared his belief that if Tibetans can maintain unity in their struggle they can achieve the aim of seeing him return to Tibet. Finally, on behalf of all Tibetans, he offered thanks to the people and government of India for the immense kindness they have shown them.
The local Indian MLA and Kalon for Home Affairs, Mrs Dolma Gyari spoke encouraging words. His Holiness was requested to present mementos to the various guests and dignitaries before being invited to speak. He greeted all present with “Tashi Delek.” He said,
“I know that Chief Minister Mrs Sheila Dixit and former Deputy Prime Minister Mr LK Advani wanted to be here, but circumstances have prevented them from attending. I believe they are with us in spirit. The Sikyong and Kalon have spoken about the present situation and I don’t have much to say.”
He talked about trying his best to help humanity and reduce suffering. Happiness depends on the mind, which is why it’s important to understand how the mind works. What has to be transformed is the mind and it can only be transformed by the mind itself. To think only of achieving victory over others is futile and will not lead to happiness. He said there are so many sources of trouble in the world, and religion should be able to contribute to solving them. This will not happen if misunderstanding and mistrust between our religious traditions continues to prevail. This is why he has committed himself to fostering greater religious harmony.
His Holiness also praised the qualities of the Tibetan language, describing it as something all Tibetans could be proud of.
“Tibetan is much better suited to expressing ancient Indian thought than English or French. It is a rich language, but it is up to you young people to bring it up to date. The 300 volumes of the Kangyur and Tengyur, which are written in Tibetan, describe not only Buddhist religion, but also Buddhist science and philosophy. In this 21st century it would be much more appropriate to read these books instead of keeping them in a cabinet and treating them as objects of offering.”
– Read more : dalailama.com
– His Holiness the Dalai Lama Teaches a Group from Russia in Delhi – Day One
– His Holiness the Dalai Lama Teaches a Group from Russia in Delhi – Day Two
