NEW DELHI: The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, marked his 90th birthday on Sunday with a large celebration in Dharamshala, his home in exile since 1959. Despite heavy rain, monks, nuns, and followers from across the world gathered at the Tsuglagkhang temple complex to honour the Tibetan spiritual leader. The courtyard was filled with red-robed monks, traditional music, and heartfelt tributes. Tibetan artists played drums and bagpipes, and senior lamas struck cymbals as the Dalai Lama arrived dressed in a traditional maroon and yellow robe. “I live my life in the service of other sentient beings,” he told the audience, reflecting on his journey. “When I look back on my life, I see that I have not wasted it at all.” Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Rajiv Ranjan (Lalan) Singh represented the Indian government. Among international guests was Hollywood actor Richard Gere, a long-time supporter of the Tibetan cause, who called the Dalai Lama “the most extraordinary man to ever walk on this planet.” Messages also poured in from global leaders. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described him as a symbol of “love, compassion, patience, and moral discipline.” US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the Dalai Lama continues to inspire unity and compassion, while former US presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton also shared personal tributes. Celebrations in Dharamshala followed a week of events, including the Dalai Lama’s announcement that the spiritual lineage would continue after his death, ending years of uncertainty.

Across Himachal Pradesh, tributes continued. In Shimla, monks at the Dorjidak Monastery offered long-life prayers, led by Nawang Tashi Rapten, a young monk recognised as the reincarnation of Taklung Tsetrul Rinpoche. He also cut a ceremonial cake. Tibetan monk Kunga Lama called the birthday “a celebration of identity and unity,” saying the Dalai Lama is not only the spiritual head but also “the guide for the entire Tibetan culture of peace and compassion.” Celebrations were also held in Nepal and in Tibetan settlements around the world, with prayers, chanting, and traditional dances. Born Lhamo Dhondup in 1935 in northeastern Tibet, the Dalai Lama was recognised as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama at age two. He took full spiritual and political authority by 1950 but fled to India after Chinese crackdown in 1959. He has since become a global advocate for non-violence, interfaith harmony, and human rights.