The 14th Dalai Lama Visits Monastery in Siliguri

Yesterday, on 14th December, the 14th Dalai Lama visited the Sed-Gyued Monastery in Siliguri after 13 long years. In Tibetan Buddhism, Dalai Lama is the title given to the foremost spiritual leader. After he visited Sikkim, he arrived at the Northern West Bengal city of Siliguri to address thousands of people who had gathered to listen to his teachings. 

The Dalai Lama urged people to take up secular ideals to increase brotherhood between all sectors of society. In his speech, he mentioned that every religion is equal and urged the people to embrace diversity and secular thinking. 

His Holiness was welcomed by the Mayor of Siliguri, Mr Gautam Deb and other senior officials. More than 20,000 devotees from Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and the neighbouring countries of Nepal and Bhutan gathered to hear him speak. Major steps were taken to secure the visit of the 87-year-old Dalai Lama. 

After the conclusion of this holy event, the Dalai Lama is scheduled to return to Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. This hillside city has been home to the Dalai Lama since 1959.