Source: Press Trust of India
JAYA, INDIA, January 24, 2002: The ten-day Kalchakra festival, organized in the face of threat by ultra organizations to blow up the Buddhist monastery, was on Thursday postponed midway with the Dalai Lama announcing that he was unable to deliver a long spiritual speech on account of illness. The festival opened on January 21. The Dalai Lama, who was to deliver his speech on Thursday, left the venue just after 15 minutes with the announcement that he won’t be able to do so as his health did not permit a long oration. Subsequent police reports indicated security was also the major concern. The Kalchakra is the largest congregation of Buddhists from around the world. This year’s Kalchakra was significant as it was being held after 15 years at Bodh Gaya — the place Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment.