Amidst torrential monsoon rains, a sea of Tibetan Buddhists converged on Dharamshala, India, to honor the Dalai Lama’s milestone 90th birthday on Sunday. Despite the weather, attendees celebrated with fervor, filling the hilltop retreats with chants and traditional performances. Decked in his customary robes and a bright yellow wrap, the Dalai Lama was aided by two monks as he greeted followers with warmth and good cheer.
Joining the celebrations was Hollywood actor Richard Gere, a long-time supporter of the Dalai Lama. Speaking to the crowd, Gere heralded the day as "joyous," reflecting on the Dalai Lama’s embodiment of selflessness through a warm embrace and kiss on his hand. The ceremony marked the end of a week of prayers for the Dalai Lama’s longevity that began on Monday, corresponding with his birthday as per the Tibetan lunar calendar.
During a recent gathering, the Dalai Lama assured his followers of his good health and proclaimed his intention to live for another 40 years, reaching the age of 130. While he typically shuns birthday celebrations, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to encourage reflections on peace and compassion. The Dalai Lama characterized himself as a "simple Buddhist monk" and opted to look back on his life without regrets, reminding attendees of the importance of nurturing kindness.
Traditionally, the Dalai Lama's reincarnation has been a significant topic, with speculation surrounding a potential successor's designation. He confirmed plans for his successor, addressing prior uncertainties regarding the future of the 600-year-old institution. Tibetan Buddhist custom dictates that the Dalai Lama's reincarnation occurs post-death, diverging from state authority.
Living in exile since 1959, following the Chinese occupation of Tibet, the Dalai Lama has long provided guidance to the Tibetan diaspora advocating for autonomy. His assertion that his reincarnation will take place outside China has been met with skepticism from the Chinese government, which insists that any succession be conducted under its regulations and approved by state officials.
On the day of the celebration, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former US President Barack Obama sent their well-wishes. Modi referred to the Dalai Lama as an enduring symbol of compassion, while Obama affectionately called him the "youngest 90-year-old I know," expressing gratitude for their friendship.
Joining the celebrations was Hollywood actor Richard Gere, a long-time supporter of the Dalai Lama. Speaking to the crowd, Gere heralded the day as "joyous," reflecting on the Dalai Lama’s embodiment of selflessness through a warm embrace and kiss on his hand. The ceremony marked the end of a week of prayers for the Dalai Lama’s longevity that began on Monday, corresponding with his birthday as per the Tibetan lunar calendar.
During a recent gathering, the Dalai Lama assured his followers of his good health and proclaimed his intention to live for another 40 years, reaching the age of 130. While he typically shuns birthday celebrations, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to encourage reflections on peace and compassion. The Dalai Lama characterized himself as a "simple Buddhist monk" and opted to look back on his life without regrets, reminding attendees of the importance of nurturing kindness.
Traditionally, the Dalai Lama's reincarnation has been a significant topic, with speculation surrounding a potential successor's designation. He confirmed plans for his successor, addressing prior uncertainties regarding the future of the 600-year-old institution. Tibetan Buddhist custom dictates that the Dalai Lama's reincarnation occurs post-death, diverging from state authority.
Living in exile since 1959, following the Chinese occupation of Tibet, the Dalai Lama has long provided guidance to the Tibetan diaspora advocating for autonomy. His assertion that his reincarnation will take place outside China has been met with skepticism from the Chinese government, which insists that any succession be conducted under its regulations and approved by state officials.
On the day of the celebration, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former US President Barack Obama sent their well-wishes. Modi referred to the Dalai Lama as an enduring symbol of compassion, while Obama affectionately called him the "youngest 90-year-old I know," expressing gratitude for their friendship.
