[1]The Dalai Lama at the Jaipur Literature Festival on Thursday—PTI
Amid threats of protest and tight security, the Jaipur DSC Literature Festival began on Thursday with the chanting of Buddhist mantra and music. Nobel laureate Dalai Lama was centre of attraction on Day 1 as he delivered a strong message of peace and harmony.
Some Muslim groups had warned organisers against inviting authors who have “hurt” religious sentiments of the community, including Jeet Thayil, Ruchir Joshi, Hari Kunzuru and Amitava Kumar, but no such protesters were seen once the festival began.
Spiritual leader Dalai Lama refused to answer a question on violence in Tibet, but said India and China both should cement good ties.
“The genuine shot of friendship between China and India is very essential. Friendship on the basis of mutual trust is very essential,” he said. China is the most populated country and India the most populated democratic country, I think lot of things can be learn from India,” he added.
The Dalai Lama said he was not in support of death sentence and that instead protection should be given to women.
Links:
[1] http://archive.asianage.com/dalai-lama-jaipur-literature-festival-thursday-pti-040