Is the Dalai Lama More Than a Spiritual Leader?

Dharamsala, July 6 (NationPress) Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu participated in the celebrations of the 14th Dalai Lama's 90th birthday at Tsuglagkhang, the primary Tibetan temple where the esteemed spiritual leader has resided since 1960.

During the festivities, attended by his Cabinet colleague Rajiv Ranjan Singh and renowned Hollywood actor Richard Gere, Minister Rijiju remarked, “Your Holiness, you represent more than just a spiritual figure. You are a vital connection between ancient wisdom and the contemporary world.”

He emphasized, “For over seventy years, you have carried forth the light of the Buddha’s teachings with both humility and clarity, guiding not just the followers of Tibetan Buddhism but individuals of all faiths and backgrounds.”

“In a world rife with conflict, your teachings, reflected in how you lead your life, gain even more significance and urgency. It is a source of great pride and honor for India and its citizens to have you amongst us,” he added.

Rijiju arrived in McLeodganj on Saturday to participate in the long-life prayer offering on the eve of the birthday. His journey included an overnight train ride from Delhi to Pathankot in Punjab, followed by a road trip.

Before reaching McLeodganj, Minister Rijiju affirmed that the status of the Dalai Lama is critically important, not only for Tibetans but for all of his global followers.

“The decision regarding his successor belongs solely to the Dalai Lama,” he stated.

Extending his greetings, Chief Minister Khandu remarked that His Holiness has dedicated his life to compassion, peace, and the welfare of all beings, and his journey “serves as a beacon of inspiration for humanity.”

“Through every challenge, His Holiness has remained a steady voice of wisdom, teaching us that true strength lies in forgiveness, and real transformation begins within the human heart. His message transcends borders and beliefs, urging us all to live with more kindness and courage,” he shared on X.

“On this auspicious occasion, we collectively pray for your long life and ongoing guidance. May your words continue to illuminate the path for future generations, and may your presence remain a sanctuary for all beings,” Khandu further conveyed.

Hollywood star Richard Gere expressed, “Your Holiness, on behalf of Westerners, I noticed something beautiful at the religious conference, confirming that His Holiness has agreed to uphold the institution of the Dalai Lama. Many Lamas openly declared that the Dalai Lama no longer belongs only to Tibet; he belongs to the world... he belongs to the universe.”

The day prior, Chief Minister Khandu engaged in special prayers seeking long life for the Buddhist monk. In September of last year, he had the opportunity to meet the Tibetan spiritual leader and invited him to visit the northeastern state. He also announced the gifting of a ‘Phodrang’ (meaning palace in the Dzongkha language), which served as the Dalai Lama’s temporary residence in Tawang, a revered Buddhist site in Arunachal Pradesh, after his escape from Tibet due to the Chinese invasion in 1959, to the Dalai Lama Trust.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama is anticipated to visit Arunachal Pradesh soon, marking a significant occasion for the state's people, who hold his spiritual leadership in high regard.

Devotees believe the Dalai Lama has a profound emotional connection with Arunachal Pradesh, as it was the entry point into India after he fled Tibet on March 31, 1959, where he was welcomed by Indian officials who escorted him to Bomdila.

Tawang, a scenic town situated at over 11,000 feet above sea level, is home to one of the holiest Buddhist monasteries. This location holds great spiritual significance for the Tibetan community as the sixth Dalai Lama was born in the 17th century at the Urgelling Monastery near Tawang.

If the Dalai Lama travels to Arunachal Pradesh, it will mark his eighth visit to the northeastern state, following visits in 1983, 1996, 1997, twice in 2003, 2009, and 2017.

Despite heavy monsoon rains and dense fog, large crowds of Tibetan exiles, monks, and supporters gathered on Sunday to celebrate the 90th birthday of their spiritual leader in McLeodganj, a quaint hill station in the outskirts of Dharamsala, which has attracted Westerners since he settled here in 1960 after fleeing Tibet.

Enormous crowds began to gather early in the morning at the Tsuglagkhang temple to partake in the birthday celebrations.

“Special prayer sessions were conducted for the health and longevity of the Dalai Lama,” a spokesperson for the government-in-exile told IANS.

The hilltop Tsuglagkhang temple is adjacent to the official residence of the Dalai Lama.

Born on July 6, 1935, to a farming family in a small village in Taktser in Amdo province, northeastern Tibet, the two-year-old child was recognized as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama, Thubten Gyatso, in 1937.