News Summary
The Dalai Lama celebrated his 90th birthday in Dharamshala, attracting large crowds despite heavy rains. The event featured prayers from Tibetan monks and messages from dignitaries, including Obama and Clinton, expressing their respect for the spiritual leader. The Dalai Lama assured followers of his well-being and planned succession, underlining his commitment to peace and compassion while acknowledging potential political challenges from China.
Dharamshala, India – The Dalai Lama celebrated his 90th birthday on July 6, 2025, in Dharamshala, with large crowds braving heavy monsoon rains to attend the event. This milestone gathering was attended by various dignitaries, including Indian Union Ministers and Hollywood actor Richard Gere, indicating the deep admiration and international respect for the spiritual leader.
The celebrations were marked by special prayers offered by Tibetan Buddhist monks at the Dorjidak Monastery, near Shimla. Richard Gere described it as a “joyous day” and shared a memorable moment by embracing the Dalai Lama during the festivities. The Dalai Lama expressed his gratitude for the birthday wishes from world leaders and celebrities, which were compiled into a video message by Tibet TV, the Tibetan government-in-exile’s media outlet.
Numerous prominent figures extended their warm regards, including former U.S. Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton. Obama referred to the Dalai Lama as the “youngest 90-year-old I know,” appreciating their long-standing friendship, while Clinton highlighted him as “one of the world’s greatest voices for peace.” U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also conveyed his best wishes, emphasizing the Dalai Lama’s embodiment of unity, peace, and compassion.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined the list of global leaders commending the Dalai Lama, calling him an “enduring symbol of love, compassion, patience and moral discipline.” With an evident commitment to his health and longevity, the Dalai Lama assured his followers of his “great physical condition” and expressed the desire to live to 130 years old.
During his birthday address, the Dalai Lama reflected on the importance of achieving peace of mind through compassion, a message he has consistently shared throughout his lifetime. Addressing concerns regarding his succession, he confirmed that he would have a successor, asserting that the Gaden Phodrang Foundation holds the exclusive authority to recognize his reincarnation. He conveyed that his reincarnation would take place in the “free world,” emphasizing his resistance against political interference from Beijing.
Conversely, Chinese officials reiterated that the succession process must comply with Chinese laws and regulations, indicating ongoing tensions surrounding the issue. Attendees expressed concerns over the potential interference of the Chinese government in the recognition of a successor, fearing that Beijing may attempt to appoint a replacement aligned with its political agenda.
The birthday celebration concluded a week of festivities that included cultural performances and long-life prayers dedicated to the Dalai Lama. Many Tibetan Buddhists and supporters traveled long distances to participate, exemplifying their unwavering devotion to the leader and their culture. The event also attracted international attention, highlighting the growing global support for the Dalai Lama’s efforts towards Tibetan autonomy and cultural preservation.
The atmosphere during the celebration was vibrant, adorned with traditional music and dance performances that honored the Dalai Lama. As he reached this significant milestone, the event underscored his influence and importance, not only within Tibetan Buddhism but also as a global symbol of peace and compassion.
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Additional Resources
- CNN
- Wikipedia: Dalai Lama
- BBC News
- Google Search: Dalai Lama 90th birthday
- NDTV
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Dalai Lama
- Al Jazeera
- Google News: Dalai Lama celebration
