His Holiness the Dalai Lama recorded a video message on Friday addressing the universities and organisations that invited him to South Africa after he cancelled his trip to the country following government's dithering on granting him a visa.

In his address, the Dalai Lama said that had been looking forward to the opportunity and that he had everything planned to receive the award from the Gandhi Foundation and to deliver lectures at universities.

"However, the government of South Africa feels that it will be an inconvenience and with no sign or answer about my visit/visa, there was no other alternative but to withdraw," says the Dalai Lama in the recording. "I feel very, very sad," he said.

He spoke about the promotion of human values, which he said means compassionate heart, something "we really need for our personal wellbeing and family wellbeing."

He further stated that he considered himself a follower of Mahatma Gandhi and that Gandhi's stance on non-violence is relevant to this world and that non-violent activities and views should become part of our daily lives.

"I am hoping in future to meet you personally," he said in the recording. He apologised for the inconvenience and disappointment and any problems caused to those (organiastions) who had invited him.

The five minute video clip can be viewed at and downloaded from www.wits.ac.za, or click here