Spirituality is an ongoing process. How do you keep the younger generation involved?

At the moment 500 monks, mostly young students are studying in India, the majority in the southern part of the country. There are lesser numbers studying in northern part of India. The teachings are very intensive, because of the traditions involved. Every word is debated, explained, and we go into their meaning deeply. Every word taught is important. We are confident that these monks will keep the rich tradition of Buddhism in this country alive, and so will future generations. 

Indian Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi had visited the historic Gandan Monastery in May 2015, and you had taken him around, holding his hand. Please describe the moment…

It was a special moment. He handed over a sapling of the Mahabodhi tree as a token of friendship of the Indian people. He said India would provide a 6-metre high statue of Lord Buddha. And he announced that the Indian Government would finance the digitization of ancient scriptures and records. 

Peace and compassion are the need of the hour in today’s conflict-ridden world. What is your world view on such issues?

Yes, compassion and peace are the only way forward. At the same time freedom is very important. Some countries are unwilling to provide complete freedom to their people. At the same time very developed countries are focused too much on the material world. Instead of peace, that becomes the greatest cause of stress. Accumulation of wealth can be stressful. It should be supported by spirituality and philosophy.