Dalai Lama’s 90th Birthday Celebrated as a Tribute to His Lifelong Mission of Peace, Compassion, and Global Harmony
The spiritual beacon of millions, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, was honoured in a grand celebration marking his 90th birthday on Sunday at the Tsuglagkhang Temple in McLeodganj, Dharamsala — the seat of the Tibetan spiritual leader since his arrival in India following exile from Tibet in 1960.
The event, rich in spiritual significance and emotional depth, served as a profound tribute to the Dalai Lama’s lifelong commitment to compassion, non-violence, and the spiritual upliftment of humanity.
A Life Dedicated to Universal Values
Born on July 6, 1935, in the remote village of Taktser in Amdo province, Tibet, the child born to a humble farming family was recognised at the age of two as the reincarnation of Thubten Gyatso, the 13th Dalai Lama.
Since then, His Holiness has walked a path defined by moral clarity, tireless advocacy for peace, and a boundless dedication to the welfare of all sentient beings.
Speaking at the ceremony, Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju lauded the Dalai Lama not only as a spiritual figure but as a global moral compass.
“Your Holiness, you are more than a spiritual leader.
You are a living bridge between ancient wisdom and the modern world, guiding people across cultures and beliefs toward a more compassionate future,” Rijiju said, addressing the gathering that included Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, and Hollywood actor Richard Gere, a longtime advocate for Tibet.
Rijiju emphasized that for over seven decades, the Dalai Lama has illuminated the world with the timeless teachings of the Buddha, reaching hearts far beyond the boundaries of Tibetan Buddhism.
“In an era marked by division and strife, His Holiness remains a pillar of non-violence, humility, and hope, and his presence in India is a matter of deep pride for every Indian,” he added.
Spiritual Legacy and the Future
Rijiju reaffirmed the importance of the Dalai Lama’s role on the world stage, asserting that the question of his successor is a spiritual matter that rests solely with His Holiness himself.
His message was clear: The Dalai Lama’s relevance transcends politics, borders, and time.
Hollywood actor Richard Gere echoed this sentiment, saying, “The Dalai Lama no longer belongs solely to Tibet — he belongs to the world, to the universe.”
Gere recalled recent religious gatherings where prominent Lamas acknowledged the universal nature of His Holiness’s influence.
Emotional Connection to Arunachal Pradesh
Chief Minister Pema Khandu described the Dalai Lama’s life as “an inspiration to humanity,” noting his unwavering commitment to forgiveness, inner strength, and compassion.
On social media, Khandu wrote, “Through every trial, His Holiness has remained a steady voice of wisdom. His journey teaches us that real change begins within the human heart.”
The emotional bond between the Dalai Lama and Arunachal Pradesh is deeply rooted. It was through this northeastern state that His Holiness entered India after he escaped from Tibet in March 1959, with Indian officials receiving him at Bomdila.
Since then, Arunachal Pradesh has been a spiritual refuge and a symbol of India’s support for the Tibetan cause.
In a gesture symbolizing this deep connection, the Arunachal government gifted a ‘Phodrang’ (palace) in Tawang, where the Dalai Lama briefly stayed in 1959, to the Dalai Lama Trust.
The revered town, located at 11,000 feet and home to one of India’s most sacred Buddhist monasteries, also holds special significance as the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama.
