Dalai Lama Turns 90: Kiren Rijiju & Pema Khandu Joins Celebrations In Dharamshala (VIDEO)

As the revered Tibetan spiritual leader His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama approaches his milestone 90th birthday on July 6, the hill town of Dharamshala has come alive with spiritual fervour, cultural vibrancy, and global admiration.

Amid ongoing celebrations, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu arrived on Saturday to participate in the festivities at the Tsuglagkhang Temple, the spiritual residence of the Dalai Lama.

Welcomed with traditional Tibetan warmth, both Rijiju and Khandu offered their respects and birthday greetings to the Nobel Peace Laureate, who has become a global symbol of peace and resilience.

Dalai Lama's 90th birthday celebration

Although the Dalai Lama officially turns 90 on July 6 (as per the Gregorian calendar), the celebrations began earlier, on June 30, in alignment with the Tibetan lunar calendar. The week-long festivities are being marked with ritual prayers, cultural performances, and community gatherings, centred around the Tsuglagkhang complex in Kangra district.

Adding to the spiritual significance of the occasion, a special three-day International Buddhist Conference was held from July 2 to 4, which will have prominent monks, scholars, and Buddhist practitioners from across the world. The event aimed to foster dialogue around Buddhist philosophy, heritage, and global peace, highlighting the Dalai Lama’s lifelong mission.

Born in 1935 in the Amdo region of Tibet, the Dalai Lama has led a life rooted in non-violence, spiritual teachings, and unwavering advocacy for Tibetan autonomy. Even in exile since 1959, he continues to inspire millions across religious and cultural boundaries with his message of universal compassion.