Himachal people welcome Obama-Dalai Lama meeting

Shimla, Feb 5 (ANI): Using his blood as the sketching medium, Dr. Mahesh Yadav, an artist-cum-crusader, has made a portrait of US President Barack Obama.

He termed this portrait of Obama in blood as a token of gratitude to the American President for agreeing to meet the Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama while exhibiting it at Shimla on Thursday.

He hopes that the meeting between Obama and the Dalai Lama will usher a new chapter to resolve the Tibetan issue.

"I welcome the decision of Barack Obama to meet his Holiness Dalai Lama and to hold a discussion with him. This decision raises a hope in humanitarians and victimised Tibetans that the meeting may lead to a peaceful solution to the cause of Tibetans. So I portrayed (Barack Obama) in my blood to express my thanks. And we hope that after the meeting he will pressurise China because if we have to save democracy, peace and justice, we have to free Tibet," he added.

On their part, the Tibetans-in-exile, residing in Himachal Pradesh, appreciated the spirit of Yadav towards their solidarity and struggle.

" Obviously it is very important because US is one of the most powerful countries. Regarding about the visit, I hope a positive reply," said Dolma, a Tibetan activist.

Apart from sketching portraits, over the past one decade, Yadav has also been scribbling letters written in his blood for the Tibetan cause and global peace.

This unique crusader has drawn the attention of almost all the Tibetans who in turn have appreciated his sacrifice of vital fluid for their cause. (ANI)