The Dalai Lama is offering a public apology after a recent incident in which he asked a child to "suck my tongue" during an event in Dharamshala in February. The revered religious leader is expressing remorse for his inappropriate request that has garnered criticism on social media.
His office issued a statement apologizing "to the boy and his family, as well as his many friends across the world, for the hurt his words may have caused." The statement further explains that the Dalai Lama often "teases people he meets in an innocent and playful way, even in public and before cameras," but many online have disputed the notion of playfulness in this particular instance.
In the video, the young boy respectfully asks if he can hug the 87-year-old religious leader. The Dalai Lama responds with a kiss on the lips, an action that already seems uncomfortable to watch. However, the situation escalates when he proceeds to ask the child to "suck my tongue."
This isn't the first time the Nobel Peace Prize laureate has faced backlash for controversial comments. In 2019, he apologized after discussing the potential for a female Dalai Lama to succeed him, stating that she "should be more attractive."
The recent incident has prompted some individuals online to call for the Dalai Lama to be stripped of his title. However, there are no indications that any such change will be implemented as a result of this situation.
The Dalai Lama's apology acknowledges the harm his words may have caused and serves as a reminder that even highly respected figures can make mistakes or engage in problematic behavior. The public's reaction to this incident underscores the importance of holding everyone accountable for their actions, regardless of their status.