Make 21st century an era of peace: Dalai Lama

Varkala (

), Nov 24: Tibetan spiritual leader

on Saturday called upon humanity to make the 21st century an era of peace unlike the 20th which witnessed much violence and bloodshed.

The Dalai Lama said peace would not come just by resolutions passed by the United Nations but through compassion and fellow feelings in the minds of each and every individual. "Peace will not come just by the United Nations passing resolutions. It would come only with compassion and respect for the feelings of others," he said addressing the 'Message Proclamation of the 80th annual pilgrimage of the Sree Narayana Mutt' at Sivagiri here.

"The 20th century can be described as the century of violence and bloodshed. Even nuclear weapons were used against human beings. So we have to make efforts to make this century a period of peace. There is an opportunity to make this century a peaceful one," he said. "United Nation's nice resolutions will not bring peace. Compassion is the alternative source of happiness," he said.

The Dalai Lama said the 21st century is also a century of development especially in the field of technology but technology would not bring peace. He said India's tradition of 'ahimsa' (non-violence) and secularism were very much relevant in the present day world. Relationship between individuals and nations should be made only on the basis of trust, he added. Sivagiri Mutt is hallowed by the samadhi of saint-reformer Sree Narayana Guru who preached the message of "one caste, one religion and one God for men".

The Mutt attracts devotees from far and wide during its annual pilgrimage held from Dec 30 to Jan 1.

PTI