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Dalai Lama urges Delhi's street children to be self confident, determined

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ANI New Delhi

Addressing the homeless here, Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, has urged street children to be self confident and determined.

The Dalai Lama was speaking with children of the Umeed Sneh Ghar, an orphanage in the national capital.

He suggested that the children should not be pessimistic.

"Human determination, self confidence really makes differences. Right from the beginning (if you are demoralised), remain pessimistic then no progress and rest of life will go in that way. On other hand, (be self confident) self confidence, work hard with determination," said the Dalai Lama.

He further urged his followers to be truthful.

"You should help other people. You should not exploit others, should not bully others. So you can be more honest, more truthful. Through that way, you will find lot of friends, trusted (trustworthy) friends," added the Dalai Lama.

 

The Dalai Lama, who is based in India, says he is merely seeking greater autonomy for his Himalayan homeland.

Many Tibetans say Chinese rule has eroded their culture and religion. They are agitating for the Dalai Lama's return from exile in India, and genuine autonomy for their homeland.

The Chinese government denies trampling Tibetan rights and boasts of having brought development and prosperity to the region.

Since 2009, at least 120 Tibetans have set themselves on fire in China in protest against Beijing's policies in Tibet and nearby regions with large Tibetan populations. Most were calling for the return of the Dalai Lama.

Tensions have mounted between Tibet and China since 2008, after riots that broke out in the Tibet Autonomous Region and the Tibetan parts of China, which led to a government crackdown.

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First Published: Dec 08 2013 | 11:10 AM IST

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