Union Minister Kiren Rijiju hailed the 14th Dalai Lama as a “living bridge between ancient wisdom and the modern world” during the revered spiritual leader’s 90th birthday celebrations held at the Tsuglagkhang temple in Dharamshala.
Addressing the gathering, Rijiju said, “Your Holiness, you are more than a spiritual leader. You are a living bridge between ancient wisdom and the modern world. We feel blessed by your presence in our country, which you consider your ‘aryabhoomi’.”
Rijiju pledged unwavering support to the Dalai Lama’s guidance and spiritual authority, stating, “On behalf of millions of devotees across the world, I assure that we will fully abide by any decision taken by His Holiness and honour the established traditions and directions of the Dalai Lama institution.”
The event saw the presence of dignitaries including Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, and Hollywood actor Richard Gere, alongside monks, international guests, and devotees, all gathered to honour the legacy of a spiritual icon celebrated globally for his message of compassion, non-violence, and interfaith harmony.
Meanwhile, special prayers were also held at the Dorjidak Monastery near Shimla by Tibetan monks in exile, praying for the Dalai Lama’s long life and global peace.
Born as Lhamo Dhondup in Takster, Tibet on July 6, 1935, the Dalai Lama was recognised as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama and enthroned as Tibet’s spiritual and temporal leader in 1940. After fleeing to India in 1959 following the Chinese crackdown in Tibet, he has lived in exile, continuing to champion peace and the Tibetan cause.
Celebrations were also held across Tibetan settlements in India and abroad, with many expressing hopes that the revered lineage of the Dalai Lama will continue through a recognised reincarnation.
