Hundreds of Mongolian pilgrims assembled in Tsuglagkhang courtyard in Himachal Pradesh’s Dharamshala on Saturday to listen to Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama's speech.

“Today, we have here Tibetan and Mongolian Buddhists, as well as people from elsewhere who are interested in learning about Buddhist teachings. They are attracted by their discovery that Buddhism is based on reason and has a bearing on peace of mind as well as peace in the world," Lama was quoted as saying by Dalai Lama's official website.

“As for me, I have reflected on cultivating the awakening mind of bodhichitta and an understanding of emptiness since I was a child. I’ve found them helpful and I’m happy to share what I’ve learned with other people," he said.

“We Tibetans here are living in exile because we lost our country. But where we are doesn’t matter that much because we rely on the Nalanda Tradition that the great Indian master Shantarakshita established in Tibet at the invitation of King Trisong Detsen. This tradition has spread all over Tibet and the Himalayan region. Conditions may change but we have a custom of responding to each other warm-heartedly. This is something worth preserving," he said.

Lama counselled his listeners to reflect on the shortcomings of self-cherishing and the advantages of cherishing others.

Poala Campo, a follower from Colombia, expressed happiness at receiving teachings from the Dalai Lama, calling it a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Speaking to ANI, Campo said, “It’s a beautiful two-day teaching with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Many people from many countries are attending, and all the Buddhist monks and nuns are also here to accompany His Holyship.”

“I feel very happy. This is a one-time opportunity. I wasn’t expecting to be here. So, it’s a nice surprise. I was very lucky to have been given this opportunity to attend this very, very special event,” she added.

Speaking to ANI, Tenzing Yega, a follower from Sikkim, said, “This was the first day of the teachings on the Hundred Deities of Tushita by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.”