Kiren Rijiju and Lalan Singh to Attend Dalai Lama's 90th Birthday Celebration
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju and Rajiv Ranjan Singh, known as Lalan Singh, are preparing to attend the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday celebrations in Dharamshala. Rijiju emphasizes that the matter of succession is a religious issue, not a political one, asserting that only the Dalai Lama and his institution can decide on his successor. The involvement of Lalan Singh, linked to the historic Buddhist site of Nalanda, highlights the government's awareness of the cultural and religious implications surrounding this sensitive topic, especially in light of China's influence over the narrative.
| Jul 3, 2025, 13:23 IST
Celebrating a Milestone: Dalai Lama's 90th Birthday
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju and Rajiv Ranjan Singh, also known as Lalan Singh, are set to participate in the celebrations for the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday in Dharamshala. Ahead of the official events, Rijiju will visit the hill town on Friday, amidst growing interest in the sensitive topic of the Tibetan spiritual leader's succession. The Dalai Lama's birthday falls on July 6 according to the Gregorian calendar, while the festivities commenced on June 30 as per the Tibetan calendar. This significant occasion is being marked with religious ceremonies and cultural programs.
Rijiju stated before his trip that this matter transcends politics and is rooted in religious beliefs. He emphasized that no one has the right to interfere or decide who the successor of His Holiness the Dalai Lama will be; only he or the relevant institution holds that authority. His followers deeply believe in this principle, making it crucial for disciples worldwide to determine their succession.
Lalan Singh's involvement is considered significant. Sources indicate that Nalanda in Bihar, which is linked to Buddhism, is an ancient center of education and faith located in Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's constituency. His participation underscores the government's sensitivity to the religious and cultural dimensions of this issue. Government sources have also noted that the central government is fully aware of the sensitivities surrounding this matter, especially in light of China's repeated attempts to control the narrative regarding the Dalai Lama's succession.