(TibetanReview.net, Sep23, 2015) – Continuing his nine-day tour of the United Kingdom beginning Sep 13, Tibet’s exiled spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, on Sep 20 addressed an audience of 2,300 in the Coliseum Theatre, London. The occasion was the celebration of ‘Ahimsa – India Day’. He was also welcomed by the Hinduja brothers in their palatial home.
The Dalai Lama explained that the well-being and fate of people across the world were interlinked despite the differences in their national boundaries and other kinds of differences. “We (therefore) need to take a more human approach to conflict and seek to resolve it through dialogue instead of resorting to military force,” he said.
On ‘ahimsa’ the Dalai Lama explained, responding to a question from the audience, that it could be realized from cultivating a warm heart within oneself.
Asked if there were situations when ‘ahimsa’ was inappropriate, he replied that non-violence and non-harm were the proper solution to any human problem.
When a young woman shouted a question related to the practice of Shugden and religious freedom, the Dalai Lama listened and said he felt sorry for its practitioners and protesters against him for their ignorance.
Asked what the purpose of life was, the Dalai Lama reiterated, “Happiness and joy are the purpose of life,” adding, “If our actions bring joy to others, that’s good.”
Earlier in the day, the Dalai Lama was welcomed by the prominent UK-based Indian business family the Hinduja brothers to their house at Carlton Terrace. Lady Mohini Kent Noon introduced him to a gathering of about 100 Indian political and business leaders.