In a sacred and symbolic ceremony ahead of the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday, the Nechung Oracle — revered as one of the official protector deities of Tibet — appeared in trance form at the Nechung Monastery in Dharamshala on Tuesday to bless the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and its leadership.
The event was attended by CTA President Penpa Tsering, ministers, members of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, and hundreds of Tibetan devotees. As part of a deep-rooted Tibetan Buddhist tradition, the oracle’s trance ritual is considered a divine consultation, often sought to seek guidance during critical times or before major events.
Speaking to ANI, CTA President Penpa Tsering said, “Nechung, along with Palden Lhamo Sri Devi, are the two official protector deities of the Central Tibetan Administration. They have historically guided successive Dalai Lamas and continue to assist us when we face unseen obstacles. This invocation is to seek their support and blessings for our responsibilities and ongoing challenges.”
Hollywood actor and long-time Tibet supporter Richard Gere also attended the ceremony, expressing his emotional connection to the monastery and the Tibetan community. “We are all here to celebrate His Holiness’ 90th birthday and to pray for his health. Nechung Monastery is close to me and my family. It’s always a joy to be here,” Gere told ANI.
The Dalai Lama’s birthday falls on July 6 as per the Gregorian calendar, but celebrations began on June 30 in line with the Tibetan calendar. On the opening day of the celebrations at Tsuglagkhang Temple, the Dalai Lama made a brief public appearance, reaffirming his lifelong commitment to peace, compassion, and the Tibetan cause.
From July 2 to 4, Dharamshala is also hosting a three-day international Buddhist conference, welcoming senior monks and scholars from around the world. The gathering will culminate in a major address by the Dalai Lama, who is expected to speak on the future of the Tibetan reincarnation tradition — a subject of great spiritual and political significance.
