By Tenzin Dharpo
DHARAMSHALA, September 23: His Holiness the Dalai Lama on Monday said that he may be “the last Dalai Lama” putting an end to the centuries old tradition of the ‘Lion throne holders’. The Tibetan leader was speaking to CNN’s Christiane Amanpour in London before wrapping up a nine day tour.
He pointed to the 2600 year old teachings of Buddha that has survived without there being a reincarnation of the Buddha and that he may appoint a spiritual successor in his absence.
Tibetans say that China is meddling into the reincarnation of their leader Dalai Lama for political gains. However, the Tibetan leader rubbishes such claims by China saying how come an atheist government suddenly got interested in finding his successor. China recently criticized the Tibetan leader for telling a New York Times reporter that he could be the last Dalai Lama.
When asked about the less than cordial response by the Chinese government to his political olive branch, he said, “Perhaps I’d say that that although historically we were an independent country, as records of the 7th to 9th centuries show, we are not seeking independence now. We can benefit from the development we get as part of the People’s Republic of China, but we must be able to preserve our language, culture and Buddhist traditions”.
The Tibetan leader, who is known for his commitment of promoting religious harmony, also attended an interfaith meeting organized by the Buddhist Society at the House of Lords.
Addressing the gathering consisting of people from all faiths the 80 year old Tibetan leader remarked that different religions may help different people and imposition of your religion on other would be tantamount to saying, “I like to eat this food, therefore you should eat it too!”
While expressing admiration for the Muslims who have come under severe prejudice from the world community, he remarked, “There is an impression in many people’s minds these days that Muslims are especially militant. However, we have to remember that there are militant Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, Jews and Buddhists too. The Muslim community that lived in Tibet was a very peaceful community and meeting them in exile I am reminded of the pure Lhasa dialect they still speak”.
