Prayers offered for the Tibetan spiritual leader’s long life as tributes pour in from across the globe….reports Asian Lite News Desk
Tibetans in exile and millions of followers across the world celebrated the 91st birthday of the 14th Dalai Lama on Monday, offering prayers for his long life, good health and continued guidance as a global symbol of peace, compassion and non-violence.
The celebrations were marked by prayers and cultural programmes at the Tsuglagkhang Temple in McLeodganj, near Dharamsala, where large numbers of devotees gathered from early morning despite the Tibetan spiritual leader currently being in Leh, Ladakh, for an extended stay following successful left knee replacement surgery in New Delhi.
Many Tibetans also expressed hope that one day they would celebrate the Dalai Lama’s birthday in Lhasa, the traditional capital of Tibet.
“One day we will celebrate His Holiness’ birthday in front of the Potala Palace in Lhasa, without China’s oppression,” a Tibetan resident told IANS.
The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), representing the Tibetan diaspora, extended its heartfelt greetings to the Dalai Lama and prayed for his continued good health, long life and boundless compassion for the benefit of all sentient beings.
The International Buddhist Confederation also paid tribute to the Nobel Peace Prize laureate, describing him as a global inspiration whose lifelong commitment to compassion, peace, humanity and universal values continues to resonate across generations.
“His unwavering message of kindness, dialogue and mutual respect remains profoundly relevant in today’s world,” the organisation said, wishing that his wisdom would continue to inspire efforts toward a more peaceful and compassionate future.
Birthday greetings also poured in from political leaders across India.
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari wished the Dalai Lama good health, joy and prosperity in the year ahead.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu said millions around the world looked to the Dalai Lama as a beacon of compassion, wisdom and peace. He prayed for the spiritual leader’s long, healthy and stable life and hoped his teachings would continue to guide humanity for generations.
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang said the people of the Himalayan state joined devotees worldwide in celebrating the occasion with profound reverence and devotion. He described the Dalai Lama as a cherished spiritual guide whose teachings on compassion, peace and non-violence continue to inspire people across the globe.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said the Dalai Lama’s lifelong message of compassion, peace and shared humanity had inspired millions worldwide, adding that his teachings encourage kindness, wisdom and harmony.
Born on July 6, 1935, in Taktser village in Tibet’s Amdo province to a farming family, the Dalai Lama was named Lhamo Dhondup at birth. He was recognised in 1937 as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama, Thubten Gyatso.
Widely regarded as the global face of the Tibetan exile movement, the Dalai Lama has lived in exile in Dharamsala since 1959 after fleeing Tibet. Renowned for his humility, warmth and emphasis on ethics, compassion and interfaith dialogue, he continues to inspire millions around the world through his teachings on peace, happiness and non-violence.
