Gaya: Buddhism is gaining popularity in China and a number of Chinese are adopting Buddhist ways of life, said Buddhist spiritual leader the Dalai Lama on Monday.
Making a brief reference to the Chinese religious/spiritual scenario, the Dalai Lama said propagation of religion continues to be difficult and religiously inclined people, including nuns, from mainland China were not being allowed to visit Tibet. The all important reference to China was made by him on the second day of his special sermon delivery programme at Kalchakra Maidan in Bodh Gaya.
The Dalai Lama is believed to have considerably softened his stand vis-a-vis China and favours a permanent solution to the age-old Tibetan problem in the form of autonomy for Tibetans. Unlike him, some Tibetan groups demand total freedom for Tibet and end of any kind of Chinese interference in their affairs, reported The Times of India.
Besides making a brief but meaningful reference to the situation in China, the Buddhist icon explained the virtues of peace, non-violence and compassion, the core values of Buddhist philosophy. His special sermon would end on Wednesday.
Earlier, on Saturday, Hollywood star Richard Gere flew into Bodh Gaya to participate in the spiritual exercise being conducted by the Dalai Lama. Gere is an ardent fan of the Buddhist spiritual leader and visits Bodh Gaya during the Dalai Lama’s visit here.