Washington: The Dalai Lama has thrown his moral weight behind gay marriage, condemning homophobia and saying he was not bothered by consensual sex among people from other traditions.

In an interview released during his latest trip to the United States, the celibate Buddhist monk said gay marriage was up to each government and ultimately "individual business." "If two people - a couple - really feel that way is more practical, more sort of satisfaction, both sides fully agree, then okay," the Dalai Lama told an online talk show by veteran radio and television host Larry King.