DHARAMSHALA, March 9: Tibetan spiritual leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama said that violence and oppression can never bring a lasting resolution to the crisis inside Tibet.

The Dalai Lama was speaking on the final day of the five-day Monlam Chenmo (Great Prayer Festival) held at Tsug-la Khang, the main temple in Dharamshala yesterday.

“Although violence and oppression may appear powerful and decisive, but it is only temporary. Violence can never bring a lasting and long term resolution to any problem,” the Dalai Lama told thousand of devotees in attendance.

“Whereas, truth cannot be destroyed, it will prevail in the end. And truth is on the side of Tibet,” the 76-year old Tibetan leader added.

Offering prayers for the victims of the ongoing violence and repression inside Tibet, His Holiness said that China is “destroying from the roots” the rich Tibetan religious tradition and culture.

“It is despicable that truth is being violently suppressed inside Tibet right now,” the Tibetan leader said.

“In today’s world, truth is losing to might and power but there is nothing much we can do,” the Dalai Lama added while encouraging everyone to pray for the wellbeing and happiness of all human beings.

Since 2009, 26 Tibetans have set their bodies on fire in the ongoing wave of self-immolations inside Tibet, demanding the return of the Dalai Lama and freedom in Tibet. Chinese leaders have called for a “war” against the

His Holiness gave teachings from the Jataka Tales, coinciding with the 15th day of the first month in the Tibetan lunar calendar. Elaborate butter sculptures were on display to mark Chonga Chopa inside the temple.

Calling his last year’s decision to devolve his entire political authority to the elected Tibetan leadership a timely one, the Dalai Lama expressed confidence and satisfaction with the work being carried out by the exile administration.

“There has been no lapse or dereliction of duties since my retirement last year,” the Dalai Lama said.