Global leaders inspired by Mahatma, says Dalai Lama

Mumbai, Feb 18 (PTI) Tibetan spiritual leader DalaiLama today said several international personalities wereinspired by the principles of non-violence and religiousharmony, propagated by Mahatma Gandhi.

"Several international personalities are inspired byMahatma Gandhi''s principles of non-violence and harmony, whichwere born in India. They have understood India''s values," Lamasaid, addressing a discourse on ''Ancient Wisdom, ModernThought'' at the University of Mumbai here.

"Non-violence and religious harmony are the two treasuresof India. I feel people should learn religious harmony andnon-violence from India. The country is a role model forothers for non-violence and religious harmony," he said.

Dalai Lama spoke highly of India, saying the concept ofnon-violence or ''ahimsa'' was an ancient Indian philosophy.

The Buddhist leader asked the youth of the country toplay an active role in the promotion of non-violence andreligious harmony.

The spiritual leader also expressed concern over globalwarming. "Global warming poses a real danger to the mankindand could become a reason for flooding and mud slides acrossAsia," he said.

Maharashtra Minister for Higher and Technical Education,Rajesh Tope and Vice-Chancellor of the University Dr RajanWelukar were present on the occasion.