Representatives of these sponsors met His Holiness at the gate to his residence. Then, preceded by monks playing horns and swinging censers, they escorted him to the temple. Smiling broadly, he waved to people on either side of the aisle as he went.

The ceremony was presided over by Kundelling Rinpoché who sat facing His Holiness the Dalai Lama. To Rinpoché’s right sat Geshé Lobsang Samten, the new Abbot of Namgyal Monastery, and to his right was Keutsang Rinpoché. To Kundelling Rinpoché’s left sat Öser Rinpoché, the Dorjé Löbpön of Namgyal Monastery and the Former Disciplinarian of the Monstery.

Today’s prayers focussed on White Tara who bestows long life and is regarded as protecting all sentient beings. She was invoked with a request to “Please come to this place, with your retinue. Now is the time to fulfil your pledge to help sentient beings.” The visualized Tara deity was empowered and an Amitabha Buddha arose on her head. Extensive oceans of offerings were imagined, including water for washing, flowers, music, an ornamental umbrella and victory banner. The Tara mantra was visualized as a wheel.

Prayers were made to a series of Lamas and deities, each verse culminating in the following request:

May you prolong the life of our glorious, precious Lama for 100 aeons,
Please grant him the spiritual accomplishment of immortality.

Kundelling Rinpoché approached the throne to present His Holiness with the long-life arrow, which he accepted and flourished. Amitayus, the Buddha of longevity was invoked. His Holiness held at his heart a vajra from which ran a cord that reached each of the Lamas leading the ceremony. The ritual described the Lama’s body being filled with various coloured lights, yellow, red, blue, green and brown, which radiated from the pores of his body to form tents of light. Tara’s mantra was recited envisioned as a wheel.

A Tsog (Ganapuja) offering was made from which His Holiness took and ate a portion. The Chant-Master constructed a mandala of grain which Kundelling Rinpoché offered to His Holiness requesting him to live long, following which he presented a statue, scripture and stupa, representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha. Next, he offered a vase of longevity, from which His Holiness took a drop, symbols of five Buddha families, nectar of longevity and long-life pills. Subsequently he offered the seven royal emblems, indicating the sovereignty of the Dharma, the eight auspicious symbols, representing the flourishing of virtue, and the eight auspicious substances, which signify overcoming ignorance.

A procession of people bearing offerings such as statues, copies of the Longevity Sutra, monastic robes and so forth, filed through the temple. Individuals approached His Holiness and were given a talisman, a knotted and blessed strip of red cloth. There was a recitation of 'The Melody of the Nectar of Immortality - a Prayer for the Long Life of His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama, Supreme Victor and Omniscient One by Jamyang Khyentsé Chökyi Lodrö. Bringing up the rear of the procession was a very elderly, white-haired man wearing a white chuba—His Holiness appreciatively patted his head.

The Chant-master constructed another mandala to be offered to His Holiness as a token of gratitude for his accepting the request that he live for 100 aeons. Representatives of the patrons, women and men, offered representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha, recalling that His Holiness Tenzin Gyatso, Avalokiteshvara, is the source of all happiness.

A monk from Namgyal Monastery read out a declaration paying homage to His Holiness and acknowledging his four major commitments. At the same time representatives of the former political prisoners in Tibet presented His Holiness with memento of his having reached his 90th year, along with a painting of him surrounded by people who have been significant in his life — his teachers, Mahatma Gandhi, Jawarhalal Nehru, Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela and many others. The statement alluded to His Holiness as a teacher of compassion and someone who upholds all traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. There was mention of His Holiness’s guiding prayer:

As long as space endures,
And as long as sentient beings remain,
Until then, may I too remain
To help dispel the misery of the world.

The declaration ended, “We request you to accept this memento and award offered on this occasion by the former political prisoners of Tibet.”

Next, Ngawang Sangdol, one of the ‘Singing Nuns’ who were arrested and punished in Tibet, made her own speech:

“With great hardship Your Holiness left your homeland. Yet, out of compassion you look after all sentient beings, particularly the people of Tibet. You are the sole hope of the entire Tibetan people. The disruptive forces of the Chinese Communist party have brought such adversity to the Tibetan people that they shed tears day and nights as they suffer.

“We are at dire risk of losing our culture and language. People in Tibet have resorted to desperate measures like self-immolation to draw attention to this. We are no longer free in our own land. As a result, we have had to flee our homes. We pray that you, who are the Lord of the Land of Snow, may yet return there.

“The Chinese Communists do not allow Tibetan language to be taught. Teachers continue to teach covertly as best they can, but they do so at great risk to themselves. There are even Chinese officials assigned to teach Tibetan children contrived history. They explain to tourists, for example, that the Potala Palace was built as a gift to a Chinese princess.

“People working for the government are not allowed to visit temples or engage in devout behaviour. All Tibetans are devoted to you, Your Holiness, but children are forced to rebel against their parents. Rules and regulations restrict what Tibetans can do. Children named Tenzin are not allowed to take exams. There is not enough time to describe everything that is going on. Suffice it to say that when we hear your voice, our eyes fill with tears. There is no one else like you who has encouraged combining traditional knowledge with modern science to teach compassion. We pray to be your disciples now and in the future.”

The ceremony was concluded with recitations of the verse for his long life that His Holiness composed at Dilgo Khyentsé Rinpoché’s request, the ‘Prayer for the Ecumenical Flourishing of the Teaching of the Buddha’, the ‘Prayer of the Words of Truth’ and verses from the Samantabhadra Prayer, the King of Prayers.

His Holiness walked from the temple to the lift and then rode in a golfcart through the temple yard smiling and greeting well-wishers on either side.

“It is heartening to see that the people of Japan have placed their trust in your capable leadership,” he wrote. “At a time when our world faces many complex challenges, leadership grounded in compassion and a sincere concern for the well-being of others is of the utmost importance. I hope that your election will serve as an inspiration to many and contribute to the nurturing of a more humane, cooperative and peaceful global community.

“I wish you every success as you continue to meet the responsibilities of your office in fulfilling the aspirations of the people of Japan, and work towards the creation of a more compassionate and peaceful world.”

We can unequivocally confirm that His Holiness has never met Jeffrey Epstein or authorised any meeting or interaction with him by anyone on His Holiness’s behalf.

8 February 2026

I receive this recognition with gratitude and humility. I don’t see it as something personal, but as a recognition of our shared universal responsibility. I truly believe that peace, compassion, care for our environment, and an understanding of the oneness of humanity are essential for the collective well-being of all eight billion human beings. I’m grateful that this Grammy recognition can help spread these messages more widely.

Horns played as His Holiness arrived with a beaming smile on his face. He was greeted by Ganden Tri Rinpoché. His Holiness lit a butter lamp as an auspicious inaugural gesture. A mandala and representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha were offered. Patrons carried offerings past in procession. Meanwhile, tea and sweet rice were served.

His Holiness’s throne faced the two statues. A cord had been arranged that ran from the throne to the statues, creating a physical link between them and His Holiness. After he had recited the prayers of consecration, brass plaques were shown to him that described in Tibetan and English the purpose of the buildings and his having consecrated them.

The Chief Monk of Sri Lanka presented a Bodhi Tree sapling to be blessed before being planted between the two new buildings.

His Holiness drove next to the newly constructed Ganden Serdong Khang—the House of Golden Reliquaries that commemorate past holders of the Ganden Throne, which he consecrated. This new building is adjacent to Ganden Lachi.

Arriving at Ganden Lachi the road was strewn with flower petals. His Holiness was welcomed by Tashi Shölpa dancers, as well as dancers representing various regions of Tibet. From the veranda His Holiness teased the Snow Lion dancers who responded by wriggling with pleasure. He lit another inaugural lamp and was escorted under a large, golden, ceremonial umbrella to his throne in the Ganden Lachi assembly hall by Ganden Tri Rinpoché, the two abbots of Shartsé and Jangtsé Monasteries, the Representative of Mundgod Tibetan Settlement, and Disciplinarians of Ganden Monastery.

Once His Holiness was seated, the Ganden Tri Rinpoché presented him with a katag, a white silk scarf, and then took his own seat facing him as he presided over today’s ritual together with the Shartsé Chöjé and the two Venerable Abbots of Shartsé and Jangtsé Monasteries. Tri Rinpoché has been leading the tsé-drub, the preparations for today’s Long-Life prayers, in recent days. Today’s ritual, ‘An Excellent Vase of the Nectar of Immortality’ is known as Jé Tsézinma and focusses on Jé Tsongkhapa in the aspect of Amitayus, the deity of Long Life. Jé Rinpoché is visualized holding a vase of the nectar of immortality. On this occasion the third line of the renowned Mig-tsé-ma praise mentions ‘Amitayus who vanquishes untimely death.’ This ritual was originally composed by the then Shartsé Chöjé, Yongdzin Ling Tulku, Lobsang Lungtok Tenzin Trinley, at the request of Gungru Tulku Kangyur Lama Tenpa Chöphel, who was a great teacher of Drepung Gomang Monastery.

The ritual began by visualizing the Lama appearing as Jé Rinpoché, smiling, with a white complexion, wearing the yellow robes of a monk and a pandit’s hat. In his right hand he holds the stem of an utpala flower on which stands a sword of wisdom. His left hand holds a vase containing the nectar of immortality and a branch of the wish-fulfilling tree, supporting a scripture. He is bright and radiant, illuminating the Buddha-fields that appear on the body of the Lama. His three places are marked with white Om, red Ah and blue Hum.

There were words of praise and request: “Praise to the Conquerors; you who have trained for aeons, trained in compassion, fulfilled all prayers, today please perform enlightened deeds for all sentient beings. Please perform all kinds of miracles to liberate sentient beings.”

Wisdom beings dissolved into the Lama. The eight offerings, drinking water and so forth were made to him. ‘The Seven Limb Prayer’ was directed to him.

Tsog was offered to the Lama who tasted it. The Ganden Tri Rinpoché, the Vajra-acharya on this occasion, the Sharpa Chojé, the Abbots and former Abbots of Ganden Shartsé and Jangtsé, the Abbot of the Nyingma Monastery, the administrative heads of Ganden and Sponsors approached His Holiness to receive his blessing. The Ganden Tri Rinpoché recited the text and presented the Long Life arrow to His Holiness who accepted it. While tsog was distributed among the congregation, the principal lamas around the throne held small vajras to their hearts linked by a coloured thread as they made prayers for the Lama’s long life.

The Ganden Tri Rinpoché with the Abbots of Ganden Shartsé and Jangtsé, as well as the Settlement Officer offered a mandala and representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha, explicitly requesting His Holiness to live long. In addition, they offered a vase containing the nectar of immortality, liquor for Long Life, pills of longevity, monks’ robes, a seat mat, an alms bowl, a kar-sil — a monk’s staff — as well as symbols of the five Buddha families, the seven royal emblems, the eight auspicious symbols and the eight auspicious substances.

The Lama was visualized as the embodiment of all the Buddhas as offerings were made to him and he was requested to remain long in the world to share the teachings of Jé Tsongkhapa with all sentient beings. The Lama’s mind was imagined as including the Seven Jewels of An Arya Being.

A procession of people bearing offerings filed through the temple while prayers for His Holiness’s Long Life and his long name mantra — Om Ah Guru Vajradhara Bhattaraka Manjushri Vagindra Sumati Jnana Shasana Dhara Samudra Shri Bhadra Sarva Siddhi Hum Hum — were recited.

The Settlement Officer Mrs Rinchen Wangmo read a request to His Holiness as the embodiment of Avalokiteshvara. “Those of us here have unflinching faith in you. You have reached 90 years old at a critical time for the Buddha-dharma and the people of Tibet. You have worked hard to guide us and we, people of Döguling Tibetan Settlement, offer you a gold and silver Wheel of Dharma to represent our single-pointed devotion and in celebration of your 90th year. May all obstacles to your life be averted. May your life be unwavering and unobstructed.”

His Holiness accepts the request, and a thanksgiving mandala is offered to him in gratitude.

A ‘Prayer for the Flourishing of Tsongkhapa’s Doctrine’, composed by Gungthang Tenpai Drönmé was recited, followed by a ‘Praise to Amitayus’, ‘Verses of Auspiciousness in Connection with the Three jewels’ and the ‘Words of Truth’.

As the ceremony came to an end, His Holiness rose from the throne and walked steadily through the assembly hall, smiling and acknowledging members of the congregation. The Ganden Tri Rinpoché came to see him off. His Holiness rode in a golf-cart from the door of the assembly hall to an awaiting car in which he then drove back to Drepung Gomang.

After meeting His Holiness, the students took part in a brief ritual to generate the aspiring awakening mind of bodhichitta as expressed in the following verse:

I go for refuge to the Three Jewels
I confess each and every misdeed
I rejoice in the wholesome actions of all beings
I take to heart the enlightenment of Buddhas.

I seek refuge in the Buddha, Dharma and Supreme Assembly
Until I reach enlightenment.
In order to fulfil the aims of myself and others
I shall develop the awakening mind of enlightenment.

Having developed the aspiration for highest enlightenment,
I invite all sentient beings as my guests,
And will enact the delightful practices of supreme enlightenment;
May I become a Buddha to benefit all sentient beings.

Subsequently they chanted the following verse in praise of Buddha Shakyamuni as well as his mantra.

Skilfully and out of compassion you took birth in the Shakya family,
You crushed the evil forces and became invincible,
You possessed a body like a majestic golden mountain
I bow to you, O Shakyasinha, the King of the Shakyas.

Om Muni Muni Maha Muna Ye Svaha

His Holiness then addressed the gathering.

“Buddhism spread throughout the length and breadth of Tibet, the Land of Snows. I was born in Dhomey (Amdo), but even when I was a child I had single-pointed faith in the Buddha and a fervent wish to see the Jowo (Buddha statue) in Lhasa. As part of my Buddhist education, I studied Pramanavarttika (Commentary on Valid Cognition) intensely and paid close attention to the threefold process of (1) refuting the position of others, (2) asserting your own position and (3) rebutting criticisms of it.

“In today’s world we find different systems of religious belief, people without any such faith, as well as those who criticize religion. The analytical tools found in Pramanavrttika are very useful in today’s milieu. In fact, the way our Buddhist texts emphasise examination and experimentation, rather than simply following something through blind faith, is very important today. I also find the instructions gvien in texts on epistemology and logic very useful in shaping my way of thinking. The process of detailed scrutiny involved in refuting your opponent’s position, asserting your own position and countering criticism of your position helps build certitude within your mind. The essential purpose of the investigative processes presented in our treatises regarding what is true or false, is to bring about peace of mind.

“When I visited Beijing and met Mao Zedong, he was quite affectionate towards me. Since I consider peace of mind to be important, I tried to reveal that to him, and he seemed to appreciate it.

“However, during our final meeting, Mao Zedong told me that religion is poison. I kept quiet, but in my own mind I thought, “In fact, to claim, as they do, that communism is the ultimate ideology — that is actually poison!”

“The way our Buddhist texts teach us to take a rational approach in our search for reality is very precious. Personally, I have made very good connections with modern scientists because I employ analysis in my investigations. This is something scientists appreciate.

“Since I came into exile in India I have visited many different places in this country. Everywhere I go people take an interest in what I have to say about Buddhism.

As far as I’m concerned, the most important point is to find peace of mind. On my part, as soon as I wake up in the morning, I reflect on how I can be of benefit to all sentient beings, and that brings me peace of mind — a sense of serenity within.

“Thank you.”

As a ‘Praise to Jamyang Chöjé, Tashi Palden’, the founder of Drepung Monastery and so its first Throneholder, was chanted, the current Drepung Tripa (Drepung Throneholder), Togden Rinpoché, offered His Holiness a mandala and representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha.

Next, a poetic prayer by Tsongkhapa’s second principal disciple, Khedrup-jé, known as ‘Voice of Brahma’ (Palden Yönten), was recited. The work was composed at the request of Gyaltsab-jé’s learned disciples when he ascended to the Ganden Throne on the passing away of Jé Tsongkhapa. The Drepung Tripa then presented a statue of Jamyang Chöjé to His Holiness as a mark of gratitude from the entire Drepung monastic community. Ratö Monastery offered a Dharma Wheel, which was presented by the Abbot of Ratö and two former Abbots in recognition of His Holiness’s 90 years bringing benefit to the world through his altruistic activities.

Tea and ceremonial sweet rice were served.

Togden Rinpoché, the Drepung Tripa, read out an explanation of Drepung Monastery’s decision to declare His Holiness the Drepung Throneholder. He recalled that when founding Ganden Monastery, Jé Tsongkhapa unearthed a white conch. Sometime later he gave this conch to his disciple Jamyang Chöjé, Tashi Palden, asking him to found a monastery. Since then, Jamyang Chöjé’s throne has been occupied by a series of Drepung Abbots.

In 1959, His Holiness the Dalai Lama came into exile in India where he re-established the Tibetan monastic centres of learning and rekindled the teaching of the Buddha. His Holiness the Dalai Lama has stated that at the time Drepung Monastery was founded he was Jamyang Chöjé.

“We have made requests to His Holiness,” Togden Rinpoché continued, “to allow us to install him on the Golden Throne of Jamyang Chöjé. We thank His Holiness for accepting our request. We pray for his long life and that he hold us in his care for life after life until we become enlightened.”

Prayers for His Holiness’s long life commenced with an Invocation of the Sixteen Arhats or Elders, beings who the Buddha instructed to protect his teaching. The Drepung Tripa made a preliminary mandala offering following which the Ganden Tripa, Sharpa Chöjé, Bönpo Menri Trizin, the Abbots of Gomang and Loseling Monasteries, former Drepung Tripas, former Abbots of Loseling and Gomang, and some patrons approached His Holiness for his blessings.

Next, a ritual was conducted to bathe the enlightened ones, to dry them and provide them with clothes combined with a request that the Dharma may flourish and that those who uphold it may live long.

The Nechung Oracle entered the hall at a run, a sword in his right hand and a bow in his left. He offered His Holiness a mandala and the three representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha and addressed him affectionately. He then paid his respects to the images of the enlightened ones and spiritual masters at the back of the hall. He offered a silk scarf to the Drepung Tripa before taking a seat facing His Holiness.

He invited senior Lamas to join in prayers for His Holiness’s long life by offering vajras linked by multicoloured cords to His Holiness, to them, and to himself. Tsog was offered, of which His Holiness took and ate a token portion.

There were prayers for the flourishing of the Dharms, Jé Tsongkhapa’s tradition in particular. Next came a recitation of ‘Melody of the Nectar of Immortality’, a prayer for His Holiness’s long life by Jamyang Khyentsé Chökyi Lodro. Meanwhile, a procession of monks, nuns and patrons bearing offerings filed through the hall.

The Drepung Tripa read out a tribute to His Holiness and a formal request that he live long. There was an offering of a mandala, as well as representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha, a Long-Life vase, from which His Holiness took a drop of nectar, and a heap of Long-Life pills, one of which he ate. Next, trays bearing representations of the eight auspicious symbols, the seven royal emblems and the eight auspicious substances were offered to him.

'The Song of Immortality — The Extensive Prayer for the Long Life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’ by his Two Tutors was recited. Patrons approached His Holiness for his blessing. The Sixteen Arhats were invoked once more.

As the ceremony came to an end a thanksgiving mandala was offered by the Abbot of Ratö Monastery and two former Abbots of Ratö in gratitude for His Holiness having accepted the request of the assembly that he live long for the benefit of the teachings and sentient beings.

Concluding prayers included a ‘Prayer to Amitayus’, the Seven Limbs from the ‘Samantabhadra Prayer’, the ‘King of Prayers’, the ‘Prayer of the Words of Truth, as well as many verses of auspiciousness.

After saluting the eminent Lamas seated around and before the throne His Holiness left the hall. Beyond the door he made a point of coming to the edge of the veranda and greeting the several thousand monks seated in the courtyard. From there he returned to the residence at Drepung Gomang where he’s staying.

Once His Holiness was seated on the throne, the Ganden Tripa offered him a ceremonial khata — silk scarf. The chant master recited Tsongkhapa’s ‘In Praise of Dependent Origination,’ following which tea and fruit were served. Next, the Tsari Tsog Offering — the Ganachakra Offering according to the Sutra tradition — was made, after which the Ganden Tripa, Jangtsé Chöjé, and Sharpa Chöjé offered the Thirty-Seven Heaped Mandala Offering. Tea and ceremonial sweet rice were then distributed.

Geshé Jangchub Sangyé, Abbot of Ganden Shartsé Monastery, read out a written explanation of the purpose of the commemorative award being given to His Holiness on behalf of all members of the Gelugpa tradition. He mentioned that as His Holiness celebrates his 90th year millions of devotees around the world are observing this auspicious milestone. Accordingly, the Gelugpa Buddhist Cultural Society was requested to organize a special event.

In this Year of Compassion, which includes the 66th anniversary of the holding of his Lharampa Geshé examination in Lhasa in 1959, the 51st anniversary of the formal presentation of his Lharampa Geshé degree in 1974, and the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Central Board Examination of Gelugpa Universities in India in 1975, His Holiness presided over this grand celebration of the Ganden Ngamchö. On this occasion, a newly crafted Lharampa Geshé Award, made of gold and silver on behalf of the Lhadhan Chötrul Monlam Chenmo Trust and the Gelugpa Buddhist Cultural Society, was respectfully presented to His Holiness in gratitude and reverence by the Ganden Tripa, Jangtsé Chöjé, and Sharpa Chöjé.

This was followed by the recitation of a Praise to Jé Tsongkhapa, ‘On the Peak of the Eastern Snow Mountain’ composed by the First Dalai Lama, Gendun Drupa, and 'The Song of Immortality - The Extensive Prayer for the Long Life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama' composed by his two tutors. Next came ‘The Prayer for the Flourishing of Tsongkhapa’s Tradition’, ‘The Prayer of the Words of Truth’ and ‘The Aspiration for the Stages of the Path’ by Jé Tsongkhapa.

As the ceremony came to a conclusion, the Mig-tse-ma prayer was sung and the Ganden Tripa, Jangtsé Chöjé, Sharpa Chöjé, and the abbots of Drepung Gomang and Drepung Loseling Monasteries, with incense and khatas in their hands, led a procession respectfully escorting His Holiness to his private quarters.

Among the Lamas who took part in this ceremony were the Ganden Tripa, Lobsang Dorjé; the Jangtsé Chöjé, Sharpa Chöjé; the Drepung Tripa and two former Drepung Tripas; the Abbots of Drepung Gomang and Drepung Loseling; Kundeling Rinpoché; Changkya Rinpoché; Ling Rinpoché; and the Abbots of Sera Je, Ganden Shartse and Jangtse, Gyumé, Tashi Lhunpo, Ségyud, Namgyal, and Ratö monasteries, along with many other serving and retired Abbots. They were joined by more than 10,000 monks, local community leaders, Tibetans from five settlements in South India, as well as devotees from the Himalayan regions and Bhutan.

At Hubli airport His Holiness was welcomed by Geshé Jigmé Gyatso, the Abbot of Drepung Gomang Monastery; Mönlam Gyatso, the Senior Administrator; and Jigmé Tsultrim, the Chief Representative of the Central Tibetan Administration in the South. He was also received by Hubli–Dharwad DC Ms. Divya Prabhu, representing the local civil administration, Hubli–Dharwad Police Commissioner, N. Shashikumar, and Hubli–Dharwad DCP Mahaning Nandaganvi. Outside the airport, he was greeted by abbots from various monasteries and Tibetan Settlement Officers from five Tibetan settlements.

As His Holiness drove towards Mundgod, thousands of people lined the roads to welcome him, including monks and nuns from various monasteries, bearing white scarves, flowers, and incense in their hands. The roads and the settlement were decorated with flags, welcome signs, and spiritual inscriptions.

Upon arriving at Drepung Gomang Monastery, His Holiness was received by Most Venerable Lobsang Dorjé, the 105th Ganden Tripa; the Jangtsé Chöjé and the Shartsé Chöjé; the present Drepung Tripa and two former Drepung Tripas; the former and current Abbots of Drepung; as well as abbots and tulkus from various other monasteries and institutions. Also present were Kundeling Rinpoché, Ling Rinpoché, and elderly monks from Buxar, who belonged to the first generation of monks in exile. In addition to these monastic dignitaries, the Dharwad Police Commissioner Gunjan Arya; the Karwar DC Lakshmi Priya; the Karwar SP Deepan M. N.; the Karwar ZP CEO Dr. Dileesh Sasi; the Sirsi AC Kavyarani; the Mundgod Tehsildhar Shankar Gowdi; and the former Chief Justice of the Tibetan Supreme Justice Commission, Tenzin Lungtok, were also there to greet him.

His Holiness walked from the debate ground in front of Drepung Gomang Monastery into the assembly hall, where he took his seat on the throne. The Ganden Tripa, the Drepung Tripa, the Gomang Abbot, and the Tibetan Settlement Officer of Mundgod each offered a mandala and the three-fold representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha as the prayer for His Holiness’s long life composed by his two Tutors was chanted.

Tea and ceremonial sweet rice were served to the assembly, after which His Holiness briefly addressed the congregation:

“This place where our Tibetan settlements are located lies to the south-west of Tibet. Today, members of the monastic communities have gathered here in a joyful and heartfelt manner. What does this signify? It shows that the vast and profound Buddhist teachings of the sutras and tantras — the immaculate doctrine upheld by great scholars like Nagarjuna — are being preserved by us Tibetans. Despite the difficulties they have faced in Tibet, our people have maintained a strong devotion to their religion and culture.

“The essential point is that we Tibetans feel a deep sense of responsibility for the teachings of the Land of Snows. Today, respect for Tibetan Buddhism is growing, not only among Tibetans, but also in China and around the world. People of different backgrounds are showing increasing appreciation for Tibetan religion and culture.

“We not only pray that the Buddha’s teachings may flourish, we are actively ensuring that the study and realization of the teachings remains alive. Interest in Buddhism is steadily rising, especially among the younger generation. While some people may not show enthusiasm for Buddhism as a religion, there is strong interest in the Buddhist approach to study, contemplation, and inner development. Therefore, we are working to refresh our engagement with the complete teachings of Tibetan Buddhism.

“Buddhism is something people in China, Tibet, and the Himalayan region have long had in common, and this bond continues to deepen. As the Dalai Lama, my explanations of the Dharma have reached many people. The Himalayan region, in particular, has great devotion, and Tibetans have upheld the strong foundations of Buddhist education. Consequently, the teachings — both scriptural and experiential — continue to spread and benefit countless beings.

“I have also held conversations with scientists who are drawn to the practical aspects of Buddhist thought. They are interested not in discussions of past and future lives, but in the methods for cultivating inner peace through a calm and disciplined mind. Even in predominantly Christian countries, this interest is increasing. When I travel abroad, I am warmly welcomed, and people listen with sincerity, leading to a fresh appreciation of Buddhist insights.

“In Tibet, the Dharma was nearly extinguished, but those of us who escaped into exile worked diligently to preserve it. Today, many scientists and others are paying attention to the Buddhist view, meditation, and ethical conduct. Through these exchanges, it is clear that Buddhism offers unique methods for taming the mind and achieving inner peace. The complete teachings of the three vehicles remain intact within our tradition.

“People throughout the Himalayan region show strong interest in the Dharma, especially in the teachings about karma and causality. Because I bear the name of the Dalai Lama, I receive many requests for guidance. Although Chinese authorities have attempted to eliminate the Dharma in Tibet, the profound teachings of Tibetan Buddhism are now gaining even greater attention worldwide.

“While we practitioners continue to uphold these teachings, it is encouraging that scientists and others are taking an interest in them. Thus, the Dharma — rooted in the three higher trainings and focused on cultivating inner peace — is now widely appreciated, even among those who do not necessarily follow any religious practice.”

Following these remarks, and having mentioned prophecies and dreams that indicate that he will live to be more than 130 years old, His Holiness encouraged everyone present to work diligently to revive and strengthen the Dharma and to benefit the world. The Abbot of Gomang Monastery then escorted His Holiness to his quarters on the upper floor of the Debate Courtyard.

I offer my heartfelt condolences to the families of all those who have lost their lives, and I pray for the swift recovery of those who have been injured as a result of this natural disaster.

My prayers also for the success of the ongoing rescue and recovery efforts across all affected regions, that they may bring comfort and relief to as many people as possible.

With my prayers,

Dalai Lama

2 December 2025

“I deeply appreciate your friendship and the generous hospitality you have extended to me during my visits to Bihar, especially to Bodh Gaya, over the years,” he wrote. “May I also convey my gratitude for your continued support and encouragement of my efforts to promote greater awareness and interest in ancient Indian thought as passed down through the historic Nalanda Tradition. As you know, India’s longstanding philosophy of karuna and the conduct that flows from it — ahimsa — sets an inspiring example for the rest of the world.

“Over the years, Bihar has witnessed significant development and increasing prosperity across many spheres of life. Such achievements are all the more meaningful when they truly improve the lives of poor and needy people.

I pray for your continued success in meeting the challenges that lie ahead and in fulfilling the hopes and needs of the people of Bihar.”

His Holiness then made the following remarks:

"Among all the various Buddhist traditions in the world, there is perhaps nothing as profound as the teachings we preserved in Tibet. And among those teachings, the 'Essence of Eloquence' is one of the most excellent. As for me, I too have memorized the entire text, although these days I sometimes forget some of it. In any case, as I listened to you recite it by heart, I clearly remembered its meaning which brought me special joy. It was very good. I thank you all for reciting it here today.

“With the passage of time, things have greatly deteriorated inside Tibet. Since I arrived here in exile, I have continued to study the great texts as much as I could. I would like to thank the Dharma friends who have provided favourable conditions and removed obstacles to this. As I mentioned earlier, we kept the purest collection of Buddhist teachings in the world alive in Tibet.

“These days in China too, there is a strong interest in Buddhism. Therefore, I think that it would be good if we could gradually spread the Buddhist teachings we have studied in Tibet into mainland China in Chinese. We Tibetans have eaten delicious Chinese food. Now, perhaps it is time to share with our friends the teachings we have studied for so many years on the basis of logic and extensive explanations. Many changes are taking place in mainland China, and interest in Buddhism is growing stronger. I am very happy today to see here people from Taiwan who can recite the 'Essence of Eloquence' from memory. Eventually, there will definitely be opportunities to teach and study this excellent text in China too. I thank you all."

His Holiness gave audience one by one to the 250 devotees from Taiwan, the monks and nuns who had recited from memory and their supporters, and an additional group of Mongolians. As they saw His Holiness off, the Taiwanese monks and nuns chanted the prayer to Arya Tara.

When His Holiness reached the gate to his residence he was welcomed by today’s Chief Guest, Dr Eliska Zigova, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to India, President of the Central Tibetan Administration, Sikyong, Penpa Tsering, Parliamentary Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel and Chief Justice Commissioner Yeshi Wangmo, as well as Tashi Namgyal and representatives of the former students of several Tibetan schools who contributed to the organization of today’s event. They escorted him to his seat in the veranda below the temple. Tibetan performers sang and danced to greet him.

While bugles played, Sikyong Penpa Tsering raised the Tibetan flag. Artistes from the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts then sang the Tibetan National Anthem followed by the Indian National Anthem to the accompaniment of pipes and drums. The Chief Justice Commissioner, Parliamentary Speaker and Sikyong offered His Holiness a mandala with representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha. This ritual was repeated by Tashi Namgyal and 24 representatives of former students of seven residential Central Schools for Tibetans (CST) in India, the Tibetan Children’s Village, Dharamshala, the Tibetan Homes Foundation, Mussoorie and Tibetan Day Schools in India and Nepal, who presented two beautiful statues of Avalokiteshvara Khasarpani to His Holiness.

Sikyong Penpa Tsering read the Statement of the Kashag marking today’s occasion, first in Tibetan then in English. He began by noting that this auspicious day marking the 75th anniversary of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s assumption of the spiritual and temporal leadership of Tibet is also being observed as part of the Year of Compassion celebrating His Holiness’s 90th year.

He recalled that a unified political empire first emerged in the Land of Snow during the time of the first Tibetan Emperor Nyatri Tsenpo in the third century BCE. During the reign of the Three Dharma Kings, the influence of the Tibetan empire extended far and wide across Asia. Under King Songtsen Gampo a Tibetan script was devised based on the Indian Gupta script. In due course, the pure Buddhist teachings of the Nalanda Tradition were brought to Tibet. In this period Tibet invaded the Chinese capital of Chang’an, presently Xi’an.

From the ninth century the Tibetan empire fragmented, but from the time of Drogön Chögyal until the establishment of the Gaden Phodrang a ‘priest-patron’ relationship existed with the Mongol, Ming and Manchu rulers of China.

In the early 20th century Amdo was invaded by the Muslim warlord Ma Bufang. Kham was invaded by the Manchu General Zhao Erfeng and Central Tibet was invaded by the British. After seizing power in China, the Kuomintang (the Chinese Nationalist Party) annexed parts of Amdo and Kham and repeatedly challenged Tibetan government forces on the border. Following the establishment of the communist People’s Republic of China in 1949 the People’s Liberation Army occupied parts of Amdo and Kham culminating in the capture of Chamdo and the defeat of the Tibetan army.

It was under these circumstances that the people of Tibet turned to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, beseeching him, although he was only 15 years old, to take responsibility for the leadership of Tibet. Thus, on 17th November 1950 he did so. For more than eight years he tried to negotiate with the Chinese, striving to protect Tibetan lives and preserve Tibet’s unique religious and cultural heritage, within the framework of the 17-point agreement that had been imposed on Tibetans. Sadly, in 1959, in the face of unrelenting PRC aggression, he was forced to go into exile in India.

On arrival in the holy land of India His Holiness repudiated the 17-point agreement, declaring it null and void. In the 1970s he proposed the Middle Way Approach to resolve the Sino-Tibetan conflict. This is the policy the Central Tibetan Administration continues to follow.

Sikyong Penpa Tsering praised His Holiness as a great Bodhisattva as revealed in his untiring efforts to fulfil his Four Commitments — promoting human values, interreligious harmony, ancient Indian wisdom, and the preservation of Tibet’s ecology and culture. He declared: “On this happy occasion we offer heartfelt prayers for the long life of His Holiness the Great Fourteenth Dalai Lama and the continuation of his enlightened activities for aeons to come.”

In his statement on behalf of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel mentioned that His Holiness visited China in 1954 and met with Chinese leaders. In 1956 he came to India to take part in the 2500th Buddha Jayanti. Here he met Indian leaders and particularly appreciated what he saw of India’s vibrant system of democracy. Back in Tibet, in 1959, he took his Geshé Lharampa exam during the Great Prayer Festival. On 17th March 1959, as the situation in Lhasa became increasingly dangerous, he slipped out of the Norbulingka Palace and fled Lhasa.

In exile in India His Holiness worked urgently to recreate circumstances in which monks and nuns could resume their studies and lead a monastic way of life. He planned and set up schools where children could be educated in a way that combined a modern curriculum with Tibetan tradition. He also took steps to establish a Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile. He entered into fruitful discussions with modern scientists about the nature of the mind and the achievement of inner peace.

In his early years in exile His Holiness appealed to the United Nations for help. Later, he sent fact-finding delegations into Tibet to appraise the situation there. Following his determination to resolve problems through dialogue, his representatives engaged in nine rounds of talks with Chinese authorities — to no avail. The Speaker appealed to the Chinese government to resolve the issue of Tibet during His Holiness’s lifetime. Finally, he too offered His Holiness heartfelt gratitude.

Tashi Namgyal, Chairman of the ex-Students Organizing Committee, spoke next referring to His Holiness’s deep concern for those Tibetans who had followed him into exile. He considered education to be of such importance that he encouraged the establishment of the first Tibetan school in exile in Mussoorie, providing support for it from his own funds. With the founding of Central Schools for Tibetans, Tibetan children learned their own language, history and religious traditions, while at the same time following a modern curriculum that included mathematics and so forth.

His Holiness encouraged his sister Tsering Dolma to set up the Tibetan Children’s Village in Dharamsala to look after the many Tibetan children who were orphans. His Holiness’s office provided funds for many schools that came up in Tibetan settlements. He would visit these schools himself to see how the children were getting on, showing them the kind of care usually expected from a parent.

To sum up, Tashi Namgyal remarked that Tibetan children achieved almost complete literacy and in due course grew up to become responsible and contributing members of the Tibetan community.

There followed a presentation to His Holiness of a Memento of Gratitude made of gold and silver depicting a pair of hands supporting an open book illuminated by a lamp of wisdom. Again, this was offered in profound gratitude for His Holiness’s boundless kindness.

A group of former students of the various Tibetan schools joyfully sang a song specially composed to express gratitude to His Holiness.

The Chief Guest, the Czech Ambassador to India, Dr Eliska Zigova addressed the gathering. “What is leadership?” she asked. “I think you’ll agree with me that we need good leadership. When we see how leadership is failing in several parts of the world, it makes this celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama assumption of the spiritual and temporal leadership of Tibet 75 years ago particularly significant.

“I was touched by the way former students expressed their gratitude to His Holiness. I was thinking too about how the young Dalai Lama shouldered responsibility for the nation and his people in such difficult circumstances, and then nearly nine years later had to leave Tibet. Thousands of Tibetans followed him. Concerned for their welfare, in 1960 His Holiness initiated the setting up of schools. We see here not only the alumni of those schools, but also the children who continue to study in them to this day.

“I visited the Tibetan Homes Foundation School in Mussoorie this April and I saw children not only being well educated but also well cared for. And what is amazing is that these children, the third generation in exile, speak fluent Tibetan. So, for the future of the Tibetan nation I pray for the long life of our spiritual leader — and I say our because he provides leadership for us all.

“As Czech Ambassador I would like to add one more thing. 17th November is an important date in the Czech calendar too. It was on this day in 1989 that the Velvet Revolution began. After 40 years communist rule was peacefully overthrown and Václav Havel became the first free Czechoslovak president.

“Our president invited His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Czechoslovakia because he felt his presence was important for his own leadership. The friendship between His Holiness and Václav Havel established a very important connection between Tibet and the Czech Republic. Wishing for peace, freedom and prosperity for all, I thank you very much”

Next, Dr Zigova was invited to launch a book, ‘Tibet’s History and the Legacy of His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama’ by Losang Jinpa Nampheltsang.

Kashag Secretary and Chairman of the Central Ghoton Organizing Committee Tsegyal Chukya Dranyi offered words of thanks. With folded hands he thanked His Holiness for gracing the occasion. He thanked the Chief Guest for her inspiring observations and the Sikyong and Speaker for their uplifting remarks. He thanked the guests and everyone in attendance for coming, especially the alumni of Tibetan schools in India, Nepal and Bhutan. Finally, he expressed appreciation to the members of the media and everyone who had helped behind the scenes.

His Holiness stood to leave and, smiling at well-wishers to the left and right, walked through the courtyard. At the gate to his residence, he boarded a golf-cart that would take him home. Meanwhile, in the courtyard behind him, celebrations continued as people sang and danced until it was time for lunch.

“Your many years’ experience in public service will serve you well in these trying times when the world is confronting immense challenges.” he wrote.

“In addition to your election crowning your personal achievements, I am pleased to note that your country has once more elected a woman President. As you may know, there is scientific evidence that when it comes to compassion, women are more sensitive to the feelings of others. I therefore believe that if more of our leaders were women, the world would be a more understanding, peaceful place.”

His Holiness ended his letter — “I wish you every success in meeting the challenges that lie ahead in fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the people of Ireland.”

When His Holiness reached the gate, he was greeted by representatives of the organizers, the All Mönpa Students’ Union and the Youths of Mönyul led by Lama Ngawang Norbu. He then walked from an archway of flowers at the head of the aisle up the centre of the yard, smiling and waving to well-wishers. The crowd sang gently in welcome.

Once His Holiness had taken his seat tea was served. Prayers for his long life were said based on the Invocation of the Sixteen Arhats. ‘Tsog’ was offered to His Holiness who took a portion and ate it. Then the Chant-master offered a mandala requesting him to live long. Lama Ngawang Norbu, who is also President of the Tendhön Cultural Preservation Society, Tawang, also offered a mandala with three representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha.

As 'The Song of Immortality - The Extensive Prayer for the Long Life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama' by his two tutors was chanted, members of the organizers approached His Holiness to receive his blessings while a procession of people bearing offerings filed past.

His Holiness addressed the gathering:

“I was recognised as the reincarnation of the previous Dalai Lamas. I studied principally with Ling Rinpoché and others. Under difficult circumstances I came to India. Since then I have visited many different countries across the world, and people are pleased to see me. I was born in Amdo and have spent most of my time trying to benefit the teachings and sentient beings. I am concerned about the teachings and the people of Tibet. This is how things have been since I came to India. I visit holy places in India such as Bodhgaya and I’m able to benefit Buddhists who come from Tibet, and I feel eventually I’ll be able to benefit Buddhists in China too.

“I’ve reached quite an age, but I’m in good health, so I am able to be of service to the teachings. I’ve had the opportunity to really serve the Buddhist doctrine and those who have faith in it.

“When I left Norbulingka, I made a prayer for the welfare of the teachings and sentient beings, especially for the people of Tibet. As we crossed the Tsangpo river I felt sad, but the boatmen consoled me. They told me — ‘Even though you may have to leave Lhasa for the time being, don’t be sad, your good deeds in connection with Tibet’s religious and political welfare will not fail, wherever you are.’ How kind they were? My mind was reassured, and eventually I reached India. After that I visited many parts of the country as well as many other parts of the world and I always kept a pure motivation. I did whatever I was physically able to do, while maintaining a single-pointed pure motivation. I’ve never wavered from that. Although I have faced physical difficulties, I’ve always made an effort and met the challenges I faced with courage.

“As a result of my travels my name has become quite well-known. I’ve been able to help many people a little by explaining Buddhist teachings. I’ve worked hard and I will continue to do so. When I first arrived in India people seemed pleased to see me. This hasn’t changed. Wherever I go now, people are pleased to see me.

“You people from Mön-Tawang have come here and made sincere prayers for my long life as well as requests to Chenrezig. You’ve made these prayers as a mark of your faith and trust in me.

“From when I wake up in the morning until I go to sleep again at night, and even while I’m asleep, I pray, ‘May the blessings of the Buddha come to those who have faith in me.’ Thus, I pray unchangingly to be of benefit to sentient beings and the teachings.

“You have gathered here today, inspired by faith — and I thank you. As well as these prayers we’ve been saying, I’ll give the oral transmission of the mantras of Chenrezig, Manjushri and Arya Tara.”

His Holiness first recited a prayer to Chenrezig — With a beautiful pure white body unspoilt by any flaw, whose head is crowned by a fully enlightened Buddha, you gaze upon sentient beings with a mind of compassion. I prostrate to you O Chenrezig.

Noting the special bond between Chenrezig and the people of Tibet and the Himalayan region, His Holiness asked the congregation to repeat Om mani padmé hung three times after him and then to join him in saying it for one ‘mala.’

Next, His Holiness recited a prayer to Manjushri — You who appear in the form of a youth and light the great lamp of wisdom that dispels the darkness of the world,

I prostrate to you O Manjushri.

“We may have a pure motivation to be of benefit to others,” His Holiness remarked, “But without the discernment that comes with wisdom we won’t really know what is helpful and what is not. With wisdom, you can analyse the meaning of reality. When compassion is combined with wisdom there is nothing greater than that for yourself or others.

“In my own case I attribute my sharpness of mind to my having recited the mantra of Manjushri. Even now, when children come to me, I teach them this mantra. Reciting it brings us analytical, clear, swift, profound and discursive wisdom.”

Finally, His Holiness observed that Arya Tara is unlike any other deity in her embodiment of the virtuous activity of the enlightened ones and her defence against the eight fears. And with that he asked the congregation to repeat her mantra three times after him.

A thanksgiving mandala was offered by the All Mönpa Students Union, led by their President, in gratitude for His Holiness’s having accepted their request that he live long. This was followed by the prayer for his long life in a single verse and the ‘Prayer of the Words of Truth.’

While everyone in the congregation was able to approach the throne and meet His Holiness in a receiving line, various singers sang poignantly to express their wish that he lives long. After His Holiness had returned to his residence, members of the congregation remained in the yard continuing to sing in joyful celebration.