Dalai Lama turns 90; Celebrations in Dharamshala amid succession tensions

New Delhi (India) July 6: Political leaders from all over India gathered in Dharamshala for a meaningful yet spiritually energising celebration of the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday, honouring his lifelong dedication to compassion, non-violence and peace.

PM Modi said, "I join 1.4 billion Indians in extending our warmest wishes to His Holiness the Dalai Lama on his 90th birthday. He has been an enduring symbol of love, compassion, patience and moral discipline. His message has inspired respect and admiration across all faiths. We pray for his continued good health and long life.”

The Dalai Lama thanked everyone who celebrated his birthday by encouraging compassion and kindness in a special message posted on his official X account.

He posted, “I will continue to focus on my commitments of promoting human values, religious harmony, drawing attention to the ancient Indian wisdom which explains the workings of mind and emotions, and Tibetan culture and heritage, which has so much potential to contribute to the world through its emphasis on peace of mind and compassion.” 

According to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the Dalai Lama's message of compassion, peace and unity continues to inspire people all over the world. 

He posted, “Extending best wishes to His Holiness Dalai Lama on his 90th birthday. The Dalai Lama continues to inspire with his message of unity, peace, and compassion.”

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju highlighted the government's stand on religious freedom while addressing at the celebration of the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday.

He said, "The Dalai Lama institution is purely religious and the Government of India believes there should be no interference in religious matters.”

Rijiju wished the Tibetan spiritual leader a long life and said his wisdom continues to help the world community. In response to Chinese criticism, he said, "We leave everything to His Holiness."

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu supported these views. He stated that he had come to represent the state's citizens in what he called a historic occasion. He said that China had no authority to intervene in Dalai Lama-related affairs.

The Dalai Lama's commitment to non-violence was also praised by Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh who was present at the ceremony.

Tapir Gao, the president of the Arunachal Pradesh BJP, called the Dalai Lama a symbol of compassion, love, and peace and stated that the world community must acknowledge Buddhist culture without giving in to Chinese influence.

It is the spiritual leader's goal that he will live for another thirty to forty years and continue to serve until he is 130. Actor Richard Gere and Union Ministers are among the dignitaries attending the celebrations. Due to China's insistence on approving the next Dalai Lama, the ceremony has raised awareness of the succession question. The current Dalai Lama's trust will select his successor, and if the chosen person lives outside of Chinese-controlled territory, diplomatic difficulties between China and India may result. Two Dalai Lamas might be recognised as a result of this scenario, one selected by Beijing and the other by trust.

Aadrika Tayal