NEW YORK — The Dalai Lama, the exiled spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, arrived in New York on Sunday ahead of medical treatment for his knees and was greeted by hundreds of cheering and chanting supporters.The 88-year-old waved from the open window of a limousine as it approached his Manhattan hotel. He walked slowly to the entrance, supported by aides.The Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959 after a failed uprising against Chinese rule in Tibet.
"There is a strong sense of community when you're here, everyone's passing around bread ... along with getting a blessing from seeing His Holiness, we also strengthen our Tibetan bond here outside," she added.It is unclear whether the Dalai Lama, who Beijing sees as a dangerous separatist, will meet any U.S. officials during his trip. He says he is not seeking independence for Tibet.Supporters, many dressed in colorful robes, danced in the streets outside the hotel.