The reception was organised by the management committee of the Tibetan Public School and the Tibetan Muslim Youth Federation.
Speaking at the reception, His Holiness expressed his deep happiness at seeing the Tibetan Muslims after such a long time and said that all Tibetans are one, even though our religion is different.
His Holiness also spoke on the importance of modern education but added that, only education is not enough for a healthy and happy life.
He said love, compassion and inner happiness are essential to lead a peaceful and happy life.
Praising the Tibetan Public school, His Holiness said the school has developed a lot since his last visit and urged the school authorities to keep on working hard, adding the Tibetan Muslim youths are welcome to join the Central Tibetan Administration.
Speaking to chief minister Omar Abdullah, His Holiness said, since his first meeting with Sheikh Abdullah, he has personally known three generations of the Abdullah family.
He said, Omar Abdullah is a young, energetic and a visionary leader and his son, the fourth generation of the Abdullah family should also carry on the work of active service to people in the future.
Chief minister Omar Abdullah, in his keynote speech said His Holiness is visiting Srinagar after 24 years. Kashmir has seen some violence in the past, but now with the blessings of His Holiness, peace and tranquillity will prevail in Kashmir again, he said.
He also said, he still fondly remembers the first time he met His Holiness at a guest house near the Jhelum river and wished His Holiness a pleasant stay in Kashmir, asking him to come back again soon.
Mr Nawang Rigzin Jora, the tourism minister, in his speech said, he is glad to receive the blessings of His Holiness and that the words of His Holiness will help to bring peace and happiness to Kashmir.
The grand reception also featured a cultural performance and a pledge by the students of the Tibetan public school to uphold the ethics espoused by His Holiness the Dalai Lama – the promotion of human values and religious harmony.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the chief minister also planted saplings to foster social harmony and cultural relations.
After the function, His Holiness met with a group of elderly Tibetan Muslims and visited the mosque of the Tibetan Muslim community in Srinagar.
The grand reception was also attended by the speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile Mr Penpa Tsering and Mr Nasir Aslam Wani from the ministry of home.
Tomorrow, His Holiness will speak to a group of Ladakhi students who have requested a special audience at the Nigeen club in Srinagar.
(Report filed by Jamphel Shonu, TibetNet)