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New Delhi, India, 6 July 2009 (Press Trust of India) - His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan spiritual leader, on his 74th
birthday celebration on Monday said he is promoting secular values and
different philosophy of humanities as preached by Mahatma Gandhi when
traveling to different countries rather than propagating Buddhism.
His
Holiness the Dalai Lama also echoed the secular thoughts of Gandhi,
saying secularism doesn't mean rejection of religion but it means
respect for religion and even respect for non-believers.
"When I
visited different countries in these years, I have not promoted or
propagated Buddhism as said by many, but harmony, humanity and
spirituality," His Holiness said on the occasion, which also marks the
50 years of his Holiness in India.
"I am promoting secular
values, message of love, compassion, dignity, spirit of common values
and harmony as has been promoted by great thinkers," His Holiness said.
His
Holiness the Dalai Lama also said that Buddhism is not only about
reciting from scriptures and practicing it, but getting into the
principals of the religion and the value it promotes.
"We have
to make Buddhism relevant in our life ...and why it is not much
relevant (is) due to lack of knowledge," His Holiness said.
Commenting
on the socio-religious changes Tibet is undergoing, His Holiness the
Dalai Lama said "the region is passing through difficult times and
Buddhism is not being promoted in the way it used to be before."
"There
is a steady depletion of the religion and our aim is to preserve and
promote the religion. We need to work in the direction to strengthen
Buddhism in Tibet and all over the Himalayan nations," His Holiness
said.
Looking back at his 50 years in India, His Holiness the
Dalai Lama said "my life has not been a "waste" and I got chances to
learn from religious leaders, scientists, politicians, businessman,
ordinary people whom I had met in all these years."
"From meeting these people, I have developed certain vision for life," His Holiness said.
Striking
an emotional chord with the audience, most of whom comprised Tibetans
from Himachal Pradesh and other parts of the country, the spiritual
leader said he is sure he will celebrate his 100th birthday.
"Through
all your wishes, I will live longer. I do not know whether I can live
for thousands years, but I am sure I will stay alive till I am 100
years old," His Holiness said.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama also thanked India for whatever it has given to him in all these 50 years of exile.
The
function was also attended by former President A P J Abdul Kalam, who
spelt out his vision of 2030 -- when the country would be free of
economic poverty and water crisis.
The function was organized by
Himalayan Buddhist Cultural Association, Delhi in collaboration with
All Buddhist Organization of Himalayan Region. |
