Tibetans Say “Thank You Karnataka”

By Tenzin Samten / August 14, 2018;

Photo: tibet.net

The five major Tibetan settlements in South India organised a “thank you” for Karnataka state for the 60 years of support, friendship and hospitality shown by its people and government towards Tibetans. The event took place at the Taj Hotel in Bangaluru on August 10 and was graced by the Tibetan spiritual leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Chief Minister Haradanahalli Devegowda Kumaraswamy. Dr Lobsang Sangay, President of the Central Tibetan Administration, Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-exile and Indian officials from the state and local governments were also present.

Photo: tibet.net

Addressing the gathering, His Holiness said that the successful journey of Tibetans in terms of education, culture, language and identity preservation has been inspired by the kind support of the Indian government. “I feel great honour that we Tibetan refugees, a small community, found an opportunity to thank the Karnataka state and we thank India,” said His Holiness, adding that it is Tibetan value that “we never forget others’ kindness.”

His Holiness spoke about his friendship with late Shri Siddavanahalli Nijalingappa, the first Chief Minister of United Karnataka, who approved blocks of land to be allocated for Tibetan resettlement in 1959 when a request for land allocation for Tibetans was sent to all state leaders. His Holiness also emphasised the importance of reviving the ancient knowledge of Nalanda in India.

Reaffirming his believe in the peaceful Tibetan struggle, His Holiness reminded the audience that the Tibetan issue will “never die”.

Photo: tibet.net

Dr Lobsang Sangay also thanked India and the Karnataka state for their support over the 60 years. He said that India is the only place where Tibetans “not only survived but thrived”.

Chief Minister Haradanahalli Devegowda Kumaraswamy of the Karnataka state government reassured those present of his support and cooperation for the Tibetan people and offered his high salutation to His Holiness.

While in Bangaluru, His Holiness the Dalai Lama gave series of talks on various topics, speaking on August 11 on Courage and Compassion in Today’s World to over 800 people at the Conrad Hotel. The talk emphasised the promotion of the oneness of all human beings. The following day His Holiness spoke on Indian Wisdom in the Modern World before returning to his residence in Dharamshala on August 14.