Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, while addressing devotees at the historic Karsha Monastery in Zanskar (Kargil district), accused the Chinese Communist regime of not only stripping Tibetans of political rights but also systematically undermining their spiritual traditions.
After futile attempts for two days to reach Zanskar, the helicopter carrying the Dalai Lama was finally able to reach the destination on Sunday because of better weather conditions.
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“The Chinese Communists have taken away not only our political rights; they have also sought control over our spiritual traditions,” the Dalai Lama said during his sermon in the remote southwestern region of Ladakh.
He lamented the restrictions imposed by Chinese authorities on the study and practice of Tibetan Buddhism, particularly its emphasis on logic and reason. “As a result, there has been a decline and destruction of Buddhist teachings in Tibet. However, in exile, we have managed to keep our traditions alive—with generous support from the Indian government and people.”
Recounting a pivotal moment from 1954, the Dalai Lama recalled a conversation with Mao Zedong in Beijing. “Mao told me that religion is poison. I said nothing then, but I knew he was hostile to Dharma.”
The 90-year-old spiritual leader asserted that the Communist ideology regards religious belief as blind faith, unworthy of preservation.
“They treat the Dharma with animosity,” he said and added, “But the Buddha’s teachings are based on study, reflection, and meditation—especially grounded in logic and reason. That is something profound.”
Reflecting on his monastic education, he noted that his understanding of Buddhist philosophy, logic, and awareness began in childhood. “Our tradition, rooted in the Nalanda school, is not just based on faith but on deep inquiry and debate. Even modern scientists find this approach appealing,” he said.
The Dalai Lama also paid tribute to his teachers, particularly the Mongolian master Ngodrup Tsognyi, who guided him through the complex teachings of the Middle Way. “Debate helped sharpen my understanding. It is a method that allows us to fully engage our intelligence,” he said.
He stressed that the exile community, though small, has successfully preserved Tibetan traditions through logical rigor and scholarly commitment. “Here in Zanskar, at this critical time, these traditions are alive—thanks to our continued reliance on logic and reason,” the Dalai Lama said.
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