Dalai Lama Celebrates 90th Birthday Amid Monsoon Festivities
Celebrations in McLeodganj
Dharamsala, July 6: Despite heavy rains and dense fog, a large gathering of Tibetan exiles, monks, and supporters came together in McLeodganj to celebrate the 90th birthday of their spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, on Sunday.
From early morning, crowds began to gather at the Tsuglagkhang temple to partake in the festivities. A spokesperson for the government-in-exile mentioned, “Special prayer sessions were conducted for the Dalai Lama's well-being and longevity.”
The Tsuglagkhang temple, situated on a hilltop, is located near the official residence of the Dalai Lama.
In honor of this significant milestone, the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), which represents Tibetans both within and outside Tibet, announced that the period from July 2025 to July 2026 will be recognized as "The Year of Compassion." This initiative aims to celebrate the Dalai Lama not only as a spiritual figure but also as a global proponent of peace, compassion, secular ethics, and interfaith dialogue.
In a message shared the day before his birthday, the Dalai Lama expressed, "I will continue to dedicate myself to promoting human values, fostering religious harmony, and highlighting the ancient Indian wisdom that elucidates the workings of the mind and emotions, alongside Tibetan culture and heritage, which can greatly contribute to global peace and compassion. I draw strength and determination from the teachings of the Buddha and Indian masters like Shantideva, whose aspirations I strive to uphold."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his best wishes to the Dalai Lama, praying for his health and longevity. In a social media post, he stated, "I join 1.4 billion Indians in extending our warmest wishes to His Holiness the Dalai Lama on his 90th birthday. He embodies love, compassion, patience, and moral integrity, inspiring respect across all faiths. We pray for his continued good health and long life."
Modi's greetings come amidst discussions regarding the Dalai Lama's succession, with a spokesperson from the Chinese Foreign Ministry urging India to refrain from interfering in China's internal matters related to Tibet.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also sent his regards to the Dalai Lama, affirming the US's commitment to advocating for the human rights and fundamental freedoms of Tibetans. The US Department of State emphasized the importance of preserving Tibetan cultural and religious heritage, including the right to choose and honor their religious leaders without external interference.
As he approaches his 90th birthday, the Nobel Peace Laureate confirmed that he will appoint a successor, dispelling doubts about the future of the 600-year-old institution upon his passing.
Born on July 6, 1935, in a farming family in Taktser, Amdo province, the young Lhamo Dhondup was recognized as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama, Thubten Gyatso, at the age of two in 1937.
After fleeing Tibet in March 1959 following a failed uprising against Chinese authority, the Dalai Lama has advocated for a 'middle-way' approach, seeking greater autonomy for Tibet rather than full independence, a stance that Beijing labels as "separatist."