BHUBANESHWAR: On the sidelines of a visit to the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology in Bhubaneshwar, His Holiness the Dalai Lama addressed Tibetans from nearby Phunstokling settlement in the city on 21 November 2017.
In his address to the community, His Holiness the Dalai Lama spoke about the difficulties of travelling long distance as a result of his advanced age. He also spoke about his increased visits within India to help revive the rich ancient Indian values of Nalanda tradition.
“India is not a predominantly Buddhist nation. However, Tibetan Buddhism has its roots in India. Majority of the scholars and teachers of the Nalanda tradition were Indian. India has over one billion population and Buddhism is never far from their cultural attitude,” His Holiness said.
“The Nalanda tradition emphasises logic and reasoning. This rich tradition that has been passed on to the Tibetans was born in India. Therefore, I have decided to commit myself to the revival of this ancient Indian knowledge. My visit to Odisha today is also a part of this effort to revive the rich knowledge that ancient India has produced,” His Holiness added.
Speaking about world peace and harmony, His Holiness the Dalai Lama referred to the problems that we face today in the world as man-made and hence, explained that we humans ourselves can resolve it.
“Even as we speak, there are people dying as a result of conflicts in parts of the world. Instead of helping each other, we have resorted to bullying and intimidating each other based on wealth, power, etc. There is a clear lack of empathy and altruism,” His Holiness said, and expressed his deep desire to see a world more humane and harmonious.
His Holiness said that all human beings have the potential for compassion, love and warm-heartedness. “These things are not related to religion. It is universal. Even from a personal, selfish perspective, if you help others, it is you who will feel happier and satisfied,” His Holiness expressed.
“Harbouring destructive emotions such as anger and hatred will only lead to more unhappiness. Therefore, love and compassion is key to long lasting happiness and contentment,” His Holiness told the crowd.
At least 1500 Tibetans from Phuntsokling settlement based in Chandragiri district of Odisha came to receive blessings from His Holiness the Dalai Lama during the visit.