The 14th Dalai Lama https://www.dalailama.com/ en-us Congratulating Omar Abdullah https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/congratulating-omar-abdullah Don Eisenberg https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/congratulating-omar-abdullah Thekchen Chöling, Dharamsala, HP, India - His Holiness the Dalai Lama has written to Omar Abdullah to congratulate him on his coalition’s success in the recent Legislative Assembly elections and his appointment as Chief Minister of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama with Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah on July 12, 2012. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

“As I have mentioned before,” he wrote, “I have had the privilege of knowing three generations of your family from the days of Sheikh Abdullah to you. I treasure our friendship.

“I wish you every success in meeting whatever challenges may lie ahead and the opportunities arise to fulfil the hopes and aspirations of the people of Jammu & Kashmir.”

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Congratulating Japanese Atomic Bomb Survivors on Winning the Nobel Peace Prize https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/congratulating-japanese-atomic-bomb-survivors-on-winning-the-nobel-peace-prize Don Eisenberg https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/congratulating-japanese-atomic-bomb-survivors-on-winning-the-nobel-peace-prize Thekchen Chöling, Dharamsala, HP, India - His Holiness the Dalai Lama has written to Mr. Terumi Tanaka, Mr. Shigemitsu Tanaka and Mr. Toshiyuki Mimaki, Co-Chairpersons of the Nihon Hidankyo to congratulate all its members on the organization’s being awarded this year’s Nobel Peace Prize.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama along with fellow Nobel Laureates paying respect at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial in Hiroshima, Japan on November 14th, 2010. Photo/Taikan Usui

“During my visits to Japan, I have had the occasion to meet some of you,” he wrote. “I deeply appreciate your work.

“I applaud the decision of the Norwegian Nobel Committee to award the Nobel Peace Prize for 2024 to Nihon Hidankyo for its efforts to create a world free of nuclear weapons and for demonstrating through witness testimony that nuclear weapons must never be used again.

“Having visited both Hiroshima and Nagasaki myself, I have some sense of the immense suffering experienced by the victims, particularly the survivors of the nuclear bombings. I understand that because they experienced the horror of the nuclear explosions and survived, those who have founded this organisation powerfully represent the need to do away with these dangerous weapons.

“As an avowed campaigner for the elimination of all nuclear weapons and demilitarisation throughout the world, I firmly believe this award will inspire all of us, including the UN and its member nations, to make a truly concerted effort to eliminate the threat of nuclear weapons and dedicate ourselves to total nuclear disarmament.”

His Holiness concluded, “We human beings have created many of the problems in today’s world. Just as all of us have a desire to achieve happiness and not suffering, we must endeavour to overcome strong negative emotions like anger and hatred, and recognise the oneness of humanity. It is important to understand that we will not achieve peace merely through prayer; we need to take action.”

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Congratulating the New Prime Minister of Japan https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/congratulating-the-new-prime-minister-of-japan Don Eisenberg https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/congratulating-the-new-prime-minister-of-japan Thekchen Chöling, Dharamsala, HP, India - In a letter congratulating the newly elected Prime Minister of Japan, Shigeru Ishiba, His Holiness the Dalai Lama wrote:

“Over the years, I have had the opportunity to visit Japan quite regularly. I deeply appreciate the interest and enthusiasm that people from all walks of life have shown in my efforts to encourage the cultivation of fundamental human values such as compassion and my work to promote inter-religious harmony and create a peaceful world free from weapons, including nuclear weapons.

“I admire the way the Japanese people have worked to transform Japan into one of the most modern nations in the world. Japan has also frequently taken the lead in trying to establish peace in the world. Your country’s spiritual traditions place great value on peace, and I hope you will be able to build on that during your tenure. Particularly in these times of uncertainty and upheaval in many parts of the world, it is vitally important that earnest and concerted efforts are made to resolve problems through dialogue and diplomacy.”

His Holiness concluded his letter by wishing Mr Ishiba every success in his efforts to fulfill the hopes and aspirations of the people of Japan and in creating a more peaceful, compassionate world.

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Congratulating President Carter on His 100th Birthday https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/congratulating-president-carter-on-his-100th-birthday Don Eisenberg https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/congratulating-president-carter-on-his-100th-birthday Thekchen Chöling, Dharamsala, HP, India - His Holiness the Dalai Lama has written to President Jimmy Carter to congratulate him on reaching his 100th birthday, which he described as an inspiring achievement.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama and President Jimmy Carter together in 2002.

“I hope you are able to celebrate joyfully with your family,” he wrote.

“The life you have lived has been truly meaningful. As you know, I have long admired your good works. To have remained so active for so long is really wonderful. Your continuing concern to be of benefit to others is an inspiration to us all. I thank you with all my heart.”

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Offering to Request the Spiritual Master’s Long Life https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/offering-to-request-the-spiritual-masters-long-life Don Eisenberg https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/offering-to-request-the-spiritual-masters-long-life Thekchen Chöling, Dharamsala, HP, India - When His Holiness the Dalai Lama reached the gate to his residence, on his way to the Tsuglagkhang, the Main Tibetan Temple, this morning, representatives of the Taiwanese patrons stepped forward to greet him. As the congregation chanted the ‘Mig-tse-ma’ prayer in praise of Tsongkhapa, and with monks playing horns taking the lead, he drove to the temple. Taiwanese bhikshus—monks—lined both sides of the aisle.

Taiwanese patrons leading the waiting to lead the way as His Holiness the Dalai Lama arrives at the Main Tibetan Temple to attend a Long Life Prayer in Dharamsala, HP, India on October 1, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

Having taken the lift to the first floor of the temple, His Holiness stopped to survey the crowd in the courtyard, smiling and waving to them. As he walked around the Kalachakra Temple he waved to the nuns seated inside and blessed the handfuls of rosaries held out to him through the windows.

In the temple His Holiness greeted Ganden Tri Rinpoché and Jangtsé Chöjé Rinpoché. Once he had taken his seat, the Presiding Lama, Changkya Rinpoché, offered him a silk scarf. Tea and ceremonial sweet rice were served to the gathering. To Changkya Rinpoché’s right sat the Taiwanese Abbot, Tenzin Khetsun and to his left was Namgyal Monastery Lobpön, Lobsang Dhargyey.

Today’s ceremony was based on the ‘Offering to the Spiritual Master’—Lama-Chöpa. At a certain point tsog-offerings were presented to the Vajra Master. A procession of people bearing offerings of statues and so forth passed up from the courtyard and through the temple.

Changkya Rinpoché offered a mandala and representations of the body, speech and mind of enlightenment to His Holiness. The Ganden Tri Rinpoché then made a similar offering.

Changkya Rinpoché offered a mandala to His Holiness the Dalai Lama during the Long Life Prayer at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on October 1, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

As the Prayer for His Holiness’s Long Life composed by his two Tutors, Ling Rinpoché and Trijang Rinpoché was recited, representatives of the patrons approached His Holiness to pay their respects and seek his blessings. Towards the end of the procession a Chinese-style elderly man paid his respects to His Holiness. With a great shock of white hair and a white beard, he represented long life, holding peaches in one hand and a staff topped with a carved horse’s head in the other.

On behalf of the members of the International Association of Tibetan Buddhism of Taiwan (IATBT) and the more than 1,220 people who had attended these teachings, as well as disciples who maintain unwavering devotion to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Hu Mao Hua Ming, President IATBT, made a fervent request. He began with a verse of homage from the ‘Thirty-seven Practices of Bodhisattvas.'

I pay constant homage through my three doors,
To my supreme teacher and protector Chenrezig,
Who while seeing all phenomena lack coming and going,
Makes single-minded effort for the good of living beings.

“Having offered this respectful prayer, as an auspicious request for the life of the supreme Dalai Lama, guide of gods and humans, omniscient and great seer, pillar of the Buddha's doctrine, to remain firm for a hundred eons, and for the light of his love and compassion to bestow happiness and well-being upon all sentient beings forever, we present this long-life offering today.

Hu Mao Hua Ming, President of the International Association of Tibetan Buddhism of Taiwan (IATBT) making fervent requests to His Holiness the Dalai Lama during the Long Life Prayer at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on October 1, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

“More than six hundred years ago, when the venerable master Jé Tsongkhapa came into the world, in addition to the teachings of fundamental discipline, he clarified the practice of the three stages of the path. Likewise, thanks to the compassion of successive incarnations of the Dalai Lama, not only have the Tibetan people benefited, but incomparable activities have been carried out to preserve, maintain, and spread the teachings of the Buddha.

“At this time, when human minds are not peaceful and nations are overwhelmed by conflict, His Holiness the Dalai Lama has given specific teachings on ‘love and compassion' and ‘the view of interdependence and non-violent conduct.' This has not only increased the understanding of believers, but also generated joy and appreciation even among those with no faith.

“Thanks to the numerous teachings that His Holiness has tirelessly imparted for more than sixty years, we, devoted Chinese disciples, have developed a special connection with Tibetan Buddhism, increasing our understanding of the Dharma and inner peace, and recognizing the value of life.

“His Holiness has visited Taiwan three times. First in 1997, when he gave teachings and empowerments, participated in dialogues, and made speeches. Later, he also offered comfort, teachings and empathy to people affected by natural disasters. His kindness is immeasurable.

“The title 'Dalai Lama' is not simply a rank but a symbol of love and peace. Your Holiness, you are not only the vital pillar of the Tibetan people, but also the crown jewel of those who uphold the Buddha's teachings. To the world at large, you are the embodiment of compassion and wisdom. Your activities are indispensable, not only to the Tibetan people, but to Buddhism and humanity as a whole.

Members of the audience from Taiwan listening to the proceedings during the Long Life Prayer offered to His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on October 1, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

“When His Holiness gave teachings at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in southern India on 2nd January 2016, he said: "When we first arrived as refugees in India, we knew no one but the earth below and the sky above. But, because we were able to work together, we have achieved good results." These words touched us deeply.

“Without the leadership of His Holiness, a great bodhisattva with farsighted vision, who works for the well-being of all beings, it would have been absolutely impossible for the precious teachings of the Buddha to have spread so widely around the world. The more we reflect on this, the more we realize that the kindness of His Holiness is beyond thought and word.

“Here, on behalf of all Chinese students, I fervently pray that the life of His Holiness remains firm for a hundred eons and that the wheel of Dharma continues to turn forever. I also earnestly request that, for the benefit of the teachings and all beings, the reincarnation lineage of the Dalai Lamas continues uninterrupted, as it has from the past to the present. It is imperative that sentient beings of the future can directly meet with Guru Avalokiteshvara, receive his teachings and blessings. Please, please, please grant our petition.”

His Holiness then briefly addressed the gathering.

“Today, you, people of Taiwan, have offered this ceremony for my long life. I pray that where Buddhism has declined it may flourish and where it has not yet spread it may be propagated. In China and elsewhere there is growing interest in what the Buddhadharma has to say. I have worked hard to see Buddhism thrive in Tibet, China and Mongolia.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama addressing the congregation during the Long Life Prayer at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on October 1, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

“We Tibetans have preserved the entire teaching of the Buddha, but we still tend to put too much effort into performing rituals. Those who practise and meditate are relatively rare. As a child, I too wasn’t very interested in study or practice, but as I grew older I came to appreciate the practical benefits of upholding the Three Trainings. And for that reason, I have practised and shared the teaching with friends who were interested.

“In my dreams I’ve seen indications that I may live to be more than a hundred and ten years old.

“Wherever those of us from Tibet, China and Mongolia find ourselves, we are all the same in being human. As I’ve said, Buddhism has now spread to other parts of the world. When I meet scientists, I’m a scientist. When I meet religious people, I too am religious. I pray that Buddhism may not just survive, but will flourish. That’s all. Tashi delek.”

Changkya Rinpoché offered a mandala and representations of the body, speech and mind of enlightenment to His Holiness in thanksgiving for his accepting the request to live long.

As Taiwanese disciples approached the throne, a key verse from the ‘Offering to the Spiritual Master’—Lama-Chöpa—was said.

You are the Guru; you are the Deity; you are the Skyfarers and Religious Protectors.
From now until enlightenment, I shall seek no refuge other than you.
In this life, the intermediate state and all future lives, hold me with your hook of compassion.
Free me from fears of cyclic existence and peace, grant all attainments,
Be my constant friend and guard me against interference.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama waving to the crowd as he returns to his residence after attending a Long Life Prayer at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on October 1, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

There followed a review of the stages of the path to enlightenment as laid out in the ‘Offering to the Spiritual Master’. As has become customary, the ceremony concluded with a recitation of the ‘Prayer of the Words of Truth’, which ends:

Thus, the protector Chenrezig made vast prayers
Before the Buddhas and Bodhisativas
To fully embrace the Land of Snows;
May the good results of these prayers now quickly appear.

By the profound interdependence of emptiness and relative forms,
And the force of great compassion in the Three Jewels and their Words of Truth,
And through the power of the infallible law of actions and their fruits,
May this truthful prayer be unhindered and quickly fulfilled.

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The Three Principles of the Path https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/the-three-principles-of-the-path Don Eisenberg https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/the-three-principles-of-the-path Thekchen Chöling, Dharamsala, HP, India - This morning His Holiness the Dalai Lama made a circuit of the Tsuglagkhang, the Main Tibetan Temple, on his way to address an estimated 7000 people, including 1300 from Taiwan, as well as many monks on vacation from the monasteries in South India. He smiled at those he saw as he passed, occasionally extending a hand to an elderly man or woman who caught his eye.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama warmly greeting the Ganden Throneholder before taking his seat to give a teaching at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 30, 2024. Photo by Ven Zamling Norbu

In the temple His Holiness warmly greeted the Ganden Throneholder and took his seat on the throne. The ‘Heart Sutra’ was chanted in Chinese, following which a mandala was offered to him.

“Today we’re going to hold a spiritual discourse,” His Holiness began. “When I was on my way here, listening to your chanting the ‘Mig-tsé-ma’ prayer to Jé Tsongkhapa reminded me that not only was I born close to his place of birth, but that I also share his philosophical views. However, the survival of the Buddhadharma is not linked to a particular location and those of us in exile have done our best to keep it alive. Jé Rinpoché’s teaching has spread around the world and I’ve done my best to clarify it.

“When I was in Tibet, and also since leaving the Land of Snow, one of my most important practices has been to read the 18 volumes of Jé Rinpoché’s Collected Works. I have a special regard for them and feel a close connection to them. Today, I’ll read his ‘Three Principles of the Path’.

“Tibetans’ core identity is focussed on the Buddhadharma. We have kept it alive and we have kept it well through study and practice. Consequently, many who have an interest in the Dharma are paying attention to our tradition.

Tea and bread served to the congregation were blessed with the recitation of a verse that celebrates His Holiness’s names:

I pray to you, O Supreme Noble Lotus Holder (Padmapani):
You are the adamantine Gentle Glory who has Mastery of Speech,
Your vase of Sublime Insight is replete with the nectar of Exalted Wisdom,
And you are embellishing jewellery of (Beautifully adorning) the Vast playful Ocean of Upholders of Dharma!

Tea and bread being served to the audience during a break in His Holiness the Dalai Lama's teaching at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 30, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

“There was a prediction at the time of the Buddha,” His Holiness continued, “that the Buddhadharma would spread from the north to the north. After his enlightenment the Buddha began his teaching by explaining the Four Noble Truths. In due course, what he had to say spread throughout Tibet, which is north of India, and on to Mongolia, which is north of Tibet. Tibetans in Tibet and in exile have kept the tradition alive through study and practice of the Three Higher Trainings—ethics, concentration and wisdom. Interest has grown around the world because these trainings are rooted in reason and logic.

“The three principles of the path are renunciation, or a determination to be free, the awakening mind and the correct view. The determination to be free does not lead to enlightenment directly, it needs to be augmented by the other two principles.

“Shantarakshita, among Indian masters invited by Tibetan kings to Tibet, established the Buddha’s teachings there. We have studied and meditated on what was taught and put the Three Higher Trainings and the Three Principles of the Path into practice.

“When we develop a determination to be free, we’ll no longer be drawn to the pleasures and attractions of this life or future lives in cyclic existence. We’ll turn away from them. However, we will not reach the state of omniscience without the awakening mind of bodhichitta and a correct view of emptiness.

“From the very beginning of my day I cultivate the awakening mind and an understanding of emptiness. When I hear sad news, these principles help me develop a determination to be free. Understanding the workings of the mind and emotions, and seeing how things are dependently arisen, we can come to an appreciation that suffering is rooted in ignorance.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama addressing the congregation during his teaching at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 30, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

“The Three Principles of the Path need to be integrated within us. They need to become part of our inner experience.”

His Holiness began to read briskly through the text noting that without a pure determination to be free there is no way to still attraction to the pleasures of cyclic existence. We need to reverse attraction to this life as well as reversing attraction to future lives. When we do not for an instant wish for the pleasures of cyclic existence, and day and night remain intent on liberation, we will have produced a determination to be free.

However, a determination to be free without a pure awakening mind of bodhichitta does not bring forth enlightenment. Therefore, Bodhisattvas generate the excellent awakening mind. They reflect on how all beings, our mothers, are swept by the current of the four powerful rivers, tied by strong bonds of actions so hard to undo, caught in the iron net of self-centredness, completely enveloped by the darkness of ignorance, born and reborn in boundless cyclic existence, and are ceaselessly tormented by the three miseries. Thinking of them in this way they generate the awakening mind.

The text touches on how, despite these realizations, without wisdom, the realization of emptiness, we cannot cut the root of cyclic existence. Therefore, we must strive to understand dependent arising.

Jé Tsongkhapa states that appearances are infallible dependent arising, while emptiness is free of assertions. But as long as these two understandings are seen as separate, we will not have realized the intent of the Buddha. And yet, when these two realizations are simultaneous and concurrent, analysis of the profound view is complete. He goes on to reveal that appearances refute the extreme of existence, and emptiness refutes the extreme of nonexistence. When we understand the arising of cause and effect from the viewpoint of emptiness, we will not be captivated by either extreme view.

Members of the audience from Taiwan taking notes during His Holiness the Dalai Lama's teaching at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 30, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

Jé Rinpoché counsels his disciple Ngawang Drakpa, to whom he sent these verses to realize the Three Principles of the Path, to depend on solitude and strong effort, and quickly reach the final goal.

His Holiness announced that he would offer the Bodhisattva Vow. He remarked that he finds reading books about the awakening mind of bodhichitta and its qualities, such as Shantideva’s ‘Entering the Way of a Bodhisattva’ to be both moving and inspiring. He said such books encourage us to work for all sentient beings throughout space.

“When the Buddha first set out on the path to enlightenment,” His Holiness advised, “he generated such an awakening mind. We should emulate him.”

His Holiness read the verses for taking refuge in the Three Jewels and generating the awakening mind, encouraging members of the congregation to generate the awakening mind and take the Bodhisattva vow themselves. Next, he repeated verses from ‘Entering into the Bodhisattva’s Way’ in celebration.

Today my birth is fruitful, my human life is justified. Today, I am born into the family of the Buddha, now I am a child of the Buddhas.

So that there may be no blemish upon this spotless family, I must now act as becomes my family.

“People around the world seem obsessed with weapons and the use of force,” His Holiness observed. “As practitioners of the Buddhadharma we should avoid this. Nothing good comes from the use of force. Killing so many people only brings further suffering. Setting aside attachment, anger and hatred we should work instead to benefit all sentient beings. Much better that developing bodhichitta within ourselves should be our primary aim.”

A view of crowd sitting in the courtyard attending His Holiness the Dalai Lama's teaching at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 30, 2024. Photo by Ven Zamling Norbu

Among several questions from the audience His Holiness was asked what is the main cause not to be separated from the spiritual master. He answered that heeding the teachings you’ve received and putting them into practice creates a strong link with your teacher.

Another questioner wanted to know whether steady cultivation of practices like the exchanging of self and others would lead to genuine experience. His Holiness replied that if you familiarize your mind with such practice, it will eventually give rise to experience. In terms of bodhichitta you’ll feel ever closer to it. He repeated the verse concerning the four immeasurable wishes.

May all beings have happiness and the causes of happiness.
May all beings be free from suffering and the causes of suffering.
May all beings rejoice in the well-being of others.
May all beings live in peace, free from greed and hatred.

“If we familiarize ourselves with bodhichitta, in time we will become imbued with it. I cultivate bodhichitta and the view of emptiness on a daily basis and I feel it has created a solid experience within me.”

His Holiness the Dalai Lama waving to the audience as he prepares to depart at the conclusion of his teaching at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 30, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

Asked how a beginner should act to prevent their sense of bodhichitta from slackening His Holiness simply advised that if you persevere with a practice, it will not decline. Finally, he declared that main cause of higher rebirths in the future is to cultivate the awakening mind of bodhichitta and an understanding of emptiness.

The Taiwanese disciples expressed their pleasure at His Holiness’s advice with a burst of applause. He left the temple, walked steadily to the lift, smiling at well-wishers as he went, and in the courtyard boarded the golfcart that would carry him home.

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Ceremony Requesting His Holiness to Live Long https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/ceremony-requesting-his-holiness-to-live-long Don Eisenberg https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/ceremony-requesting-his-holiness-to-live-long Thekchen Chöling, Dharamsala, HP, India - When His Holiness the Dalai Lama reached the gate to his residence this morning, representatives of the groups offering today’s ceremony stepped forward to pay their respects and welcome him. They belonged to the Tibetan Women's Association, former students of the Central School for Tibetans, Dalhousie, and people from Lhasa and the surrounding districts. Then, led by monks playing horns, these representatives escorted His Holiness to the temple.

Tibetan dancers performing as His Holiness the Dalai Lama arrives at the Main Tibetan Temple courtyard to attend a Long Life Offering Ceremony in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 18, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

The pillars and beams were wrapped in coloured cloth and hung with garlands of marigolds. The path from His Holiness’s gate to the temple door was laid with red carpet on which marigold petals were scattered.

Ornately costumed women sang on either side of the aisle as His Holiness drove through. In front of the temple, energetic Tashi Shölpa and Tro-gar dancers performed to welcome him. When the traditionally welcoming Chema-changphu was offered to him, he tossed a few grains in the air, took a pinch of tsampa and dipped his finger in cups of chang and milk.

His Holiness walked steadily to the lift and then all around the temple to the door. Here and there he paused to engage with members of the crowd and to bless rosaries they held out to him. As has been his custom he stopped at a certain point to smile and wave to people gathered to see him on the road below.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama engaging with members of the crowd as he walks to the Main Tibetan Temple to attend a Long Life Offering Ceremony in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 18, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

In the temple His Holiness took his seat on a throne festooned with garlands of marigolds. He put on a yellow Pandit’s Hat to receiving a welcome from Ven Samdhong Rinpoché, who was the Lama presiding over today’s ceremony, Rinpoché was joined in leading the proceedings by, to his right, Ven Lobsang Dhargyey, Lobpön of Namgyal Monastery and, to his left, by Bari Rinpoché.

Tea, bread and sweet rice were served.

Today, the ceremony was related to ‘Granting the Essence of Immortality’ composed by the Great Fifth Dalai Lama following a vision he had of Guru Padmasambhava in the form of Amitayus. The ritual invoked the Eight Aspects of Guru Rinpoché as well as Khandro Yeshé Tsogyal. At key points in the performance His Holiness put on a red Pandit’s Hat.

 Ven Samdhong Rinpoché presenting offerings to His Holiness the Dalai Lama during the Long Live Offering Ceremony at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 18, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

A prayer invoking the Dharma Protectors of Tibet, including the twelve Ten-mas, that His Holiness composed in the 1970s was recited. Ven Samdhong Rinpoché and a representative of the Tibetan Women’s Association (TWA) offered a mandala to His Holiness requesting him to live long. He was then offered a vase of long-life nectar, long-life liquor, long-life pills, an arrow of longevity adorned with a silk banner and ritual cakes representing peaceful, increasing, controlling and forceful activities. He was then presented with trays bearing the eight auspicious symbols, seven royal emblems and eight auspicious substances.

In the meantime, a continuous procession of people bearing gifts passed through the temple.

Members of the Tibetan Women’s Association (TWA) holding offerings parading past His Holiness the Dalai Lama during the Long Live Offering Ceremony at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 18, 2024. Photo by Ven Zamling Norbu

The prayer for His Holiness’s long life composed by his two Tutors was recited.

There followed a musical interlude during which Tibetan lay-people sang that they belong to a bloodline that has come down from the time of the ancestral kings. Due to good karma and previously made aspirations they declared that they have been born in the Land of Snows, where the people are especially related to Chenrezig and are to be tamed by him. The song went on to refer to His Holiness, who was also born in the Land of Snows, and has become a pillar of peace in the world.

Tibetan lay people singing a song composed for His Holiness the Dalai Lama during the Long Live Offering Ceremony at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 18, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

“We are grateful to you, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Gyalwa Tenzin Gyatso,” they sang, “Please remain steadfast and live long. You are the protector of the Tibetan people.”

Addressing the audience His Holiness said, “So, today, you have repeated these prayers and made a request to me to live long. You have referred to me as someone who can help the people of the Three Provinces of Tibet. We are gathered here together as a result of merit and prayers we have accumulated in the past, but we have been born at a difficult time.

“I was born in Amdo and named Lhamo Dhondup, but I became someone able to explain the Dharma and engage in fruitful discussions with scientists. I believe I have been able to make a contribution to the cause of Tibet and to the preservation of the Buddhadharma. I have also created the karma and made prayers to be of benefit to the people of China, where there is growing interest in the Buddha’s teaching.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama during the Long Life Offering Ceremony at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 18, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

“I will continue to try to fulfil the wishes of the Buddha. Meanwhile, the spirit of the people of Tibet remains undaunted, please, I urge you, keep your spirits up. We, the people of the Three Provinces of Tibet, maintain these incredible traditions, the heritage we received from Nalanda. I’d like to thank all of you for the various contributions you’ve made.”

There followed a prayer to Guru Padmasambhava. Representatives of the patrons of today’s ceremony approached the throne and paid their respects to His Holiness. He gave each of them a white silk scarf and a protective red ribbon.

Prayers were made to Guru Rinpoché and a mandala was offered to His Holiness in thanks to him for accepting the request to live long.

The ceremony was brought to an end with the ‘Prayer for His Holiness’s Long Life in a Single Verse’, a ‘Praise to Amitayus’, a ‘Prayer for the Flourishing of the Non-Sectarian Teachings of the Buddha’, ‘Lines of Auspiciousness’ and the ‘Prayer of the Words of Truth’. His Holiness left the temple and, beaming at members of the congregation on either side of the path as he went, walked to the lift. In the temple courtyard he boarded a golf-cart and, still smiling and waving to people who caught his eye, drove back to his residence.

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Congratulating Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his Birthday https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/congratulating-prime-minister-narendra-modi-on-his-birthday Don Eisenberg https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/congratulating-prime-minister-narendra-modi-on-his-birthday Thekchen Chöling, Dharamsala, HP, India - His Holiness the Dalai Lama has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to congratulate him on his birthday and wish him many happy returns of the day.

“With its age-old traditions of ‘Ahimsa’ and ‘Karuna’, India sets an example to the world,” he wrote. “Moreover, its growing international influence, in addition to being a robust democracy, means that India has an important contribution to make to peace and dialogue in our increasingly interdependent world.

“As ever, I would like to take this opportunity to express immense gratitude to the Government and people of India for the generous assistance and hospitality provided to me and Tibetans in exile for more than 65 years.”

His Holiness conclued: “I wish you good health and success in realizing the hopes and aspirations of the people of this great and ancient country and in contributing to the creation of a more compassionate, peaceful world.”

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Teachings for South-east Asian Buddhists https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/teachings-for-south-east-asian-buddhists Don Eisenberg https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/teachings-for-south-east-asian-buddhists Thekchen Chöling, Dharamsala, HP, India - Riding in a golf-cart from his residence to the Tsuglagkhang, the Main Tibetan Temple, and then walking from the lift to the temple, His Holiness the Dalai Lama smiled broadly, happy to see the people gathered to hear him teach. Of the estimated 5000 people present, 700 were from the following South-east Asia countries: Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Bangladesh and Laos.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama riding a golf-cart from his residence to the Main Tibetan Temple to give his teaching for South-east Asian Buddhists in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 12, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

As soon as His Holiness was settled on the throne, a group of Theravada monks chanted a Homage to the Three Jewels (Triratna Vandana) in Pali. This was followed by a recitation of the ‘Heart Sutra’ in Tibetan and the salutation verses from ‘Ornament for Clear Realizations’ and ‘Fundamental Wisdom of the Middle Way’. Tea and bread were served.

“I’ve been living here in Dharamsala since coming into exile,” His Holiness began. “Today, among those gathered here some have a long-standing faith in the teaching of the Buddha, others have no historical connection with it. People can’t be forced to take an interest in the Dharma. It’s something you think about and develop an interest in. For example, in China today more and more people appreciate what the Buddha taught because it gives rise to peace of mind. This occurs not as a result of faith or repeating prayers, but due to analytical thought.

“Among my friends are scientists, who admire Buddhist teachings because they are based on logic and reason. They are attracted by the extensive explanations of the workings of the mind and emotions and methods for achieving peace of mind. In places where Buddhism was historically not well known, there is growing interest, not so much in rituals and prayers, but in using the mind to achieve inner peace.

“The Nalanda Tradition examined the mind and emotions and established what disturbs our peace of mind. It developed techniques to counter the destructive emotions. All the world’s religious traditions convey advice that is of help and benefit to humanity. But Buddhism also contains psychological insight that enables us to transform our minds. The key is to understand how our minds and emotions work and in this very life to reduce destructive emotions like anger and jealousy.

“The purpose of the Buddha’s teaching is to reduce negative states of mind. It’s not about faith, but bringing about change. The Buddha became enlightened at Bodhgaya and subsequently taught the Four Noble Truths. These describe the general structure of his teaching. When it came to the second turning of the wheel of Dharma he taught the Perfection of Wisdom, instructions to be viewed in the light of reason. I can say that because the Buddha’s teaching is based on reason and logic, it has the potential to benefit the whole world.

A view inside the Main Tibetan Temple during His Holiness the Dalai Lama's teaching for South-east Asian Buddhists in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 12, 2024. Photo by Ven Zamling Norbu

“The moment I wake in the morning, I think about the awakening mind of bodhichitta and emptiness. Indian masters have written about these things. What’s more, many Indian masters came to Tibet to teach and many Tibetans came to India to learn. Consequently, we received the transmission of the Buddha’s entire teaching, which we have preserved and can now share with the world. And, as I’ve already said, we are able to hold discussions with scientists because the Buddha’s teachings are rooted in logic and reason.

“In his initial teaching the Buddha revealed the Four Truths—the truth of suffering, the truth of the origin of suffering, the truth of cessation and the truth of the path. These entail comprehensive instructions for achieving peace of mind. I am an ordinary follower of the Buddha who has found his teaching to be helpful to me. Therefore, I ask you, my Dharma brothers and sisters to keep in mind that the teaching involves more than mere ritual. It entails methods for bringing about inner peace by cultivating a genuine concern for others.”

Members of the audience took the opportunity to ask His Holiness questions. The first concerned the essence of Buddhism. His Holiness told the questioner that it’s about having a good heart and helping others rather than doing them harm. Next His Holiness was asked how to develop compassion and empathy in a stressful world. He replied that if you understand the teaching of the Buddha, when you face hardship, you will be able to employ techniques to counter your negative emotions. He was quite clear that cultivating love and compassion enables us to calm our minds.

Answering a question about the importance of emptiness in Tibetan Buddhism His Holiness stated that it is because Buddhist practice involves training and controlling our minds. He said there are two ways to approach this. One depends on faith, the other relies on wisdom.

A member of the audience asking His Holiness the Dalai Lama a question during the teaching for South-east Asian Buddhists at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 12, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

“Usually, we regard an adversary as someone who exists objectively from their own side. When we are able to see that people and things that do us harm do not exist as they appear to do, but exist only as designations, our anger and hostility is reduced. Although things appear to exist objectively and independently, when you understand that in fact neither persons nor things exist in that way, it really helps us to reduce anger and animosity.

“I have clear personal experience of this since I meditate on emptiness every day. It is helpful to me. When we see things and consider that they exist objectively from their own side, we stoke our negative emotions. But when we realize that people and things do not exist as they appear, it helps us diminish our negative responses to them.”

Finally, His Holiness was asked to explain what he means when he encourages people to become 21st century Buddhists. He mentioned that there are so many things that we can learn, but most important are the methods we can use to cultivate a relaxed state of mind. The awakening mind of bodhichitta and an understanding emptiness are really helpful when it comes to dispelling our mental turmoil. Understanding how things actually exist and cultivating a genuine sense of compassion will bring about peace of mind.

Conditions may be adverse, but you can turn them in your favour. Buddhism, His Holiness observed, is not just a matter of having faith in the three jewels, it’s about examining things in the light reason and logic and generating peace of mind, which in turn contributes to creating peace in the world. This is like taking a scientific approach and if you can do that, you’ll be a 21st century Buddhist.

His Holiness announced that he would give the oral transmission of the six-syllable mantra of Avalokiteshvara, Om mani padme hung. He noted that people recite this from childhood throughout the three provinces of Tibet. When you feel mentally disturbed, he said, it helps you calm your mind.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama giving the oral transmission of the six-syllable mantra of Avalokiteshvara, Om mani padme hung, during the teaching for South-east Asian Buddhists at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 12, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

His Holiness recited a praise to Avalokiteshvara before leading the congregation in repeating the mantra:

Avalokiteshvara, your thousand hands represent one thousand universal monarchs
our thousand eyes represent the thousand Buddhas of this fortunate aeon,
You who appear to different sentient beings according to their disposition,
Venerable Avalokiteshvara I pay homage to you.

The recitation concluded:

By the virtue of having recited this mantra
May I attain the state of Avalokiteshvara
and may I lead others to the very same state.

As he walked from the temple to the lift and then boarded the golf-cart that would take him home, His Holiness ran his gaze over the crowd, smiling and waving as he went.

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Long Life Ceremony https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/long-life-ceremony-1 Don Eisenberg https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/long-life-ceremony-1 Thekchen Chöling, Dharamsala, HP, India - The Tsuglagkhang, the Main Tibetan Temple, was brightly decorated today as part of a ceremony to pray for the Long Life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The pillars were wrapped in cloth in the colours of the Indian flag and hung with garlands of marigolds. The path through the courtyard was covered with red carpet embellished with coloured auspicious symbols. Immediately before His Holiness was about to arrive it was strewn with marigold petals.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama arriving by golf cart at the Main Tibetan Temple courtyard on his way to participate in a Long Life Prayer offered by the Mönpa Community of Arunachal Pradesh in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 7, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

When His Holiness reached the gate in a golf cart, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu stepped forward to greet him and offered a golden silk scarf. He and other Mönpas, people from Tawang District of Arunachal Pradesh, the organizers of yesterday’s teaching and today’s long-life ceremony then escorted His Holiness to the temple. As the golf cart approached the lift on the eastern side of the temple a Mönpa laywoman and layman offered the traditional Chema Changpu as a mark of welcome.

As he walked to the temple door, His Holiness smiled and waved to well-wishers, stopping to accept a scarf from a small boy. Inside the temple he came to the front of the platform to salute the congregation. He then took his seat on the throne. To his right sat representatives of the Mönpa community and to his left were present and former officials of the Central Tibetan Administration.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu was accompanied by his wife and children, Arunachal MP Tapir Gao, Education Minister Shri Pasang Dorje Sona, MLAs from Lungla, Tawang, Kalatang and Dirang, as well as the Chairman of DoKA – the Department of Karmik and Adhyatmik Affairs. The 1400 Mönpas His Holiness has met over the last three days were joined in and around the temple by 3500 local Tibetans and other interested people.

Ling Rinpoché, who presided over the ceremony, sat directly in front of His Holiness. To his right was Namgyal Lobpön Lobsang Dhargyey and to his left Guru Tulku Rinpoché, former Abbot of Tawang Monastery, and Khandro Tsering Ché-nga. With them were several Mönpa Abbots.

Ling Rinpoché presiding over the Long Life ceremony offered to His Holiness the Dalai Lama by the Mönpa Community of Arunachal Pradesh at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 7, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

The ceremony that was conducted today was based on a ritual composed by the Great Fifth Dalai Lama called ‘Granting the Pure Essence of Immortality’. While a praise of His Holiness that he had himself written at the behest of Dilgo Khyentsé Rinpoché was recited, Ling Rinpoché made a mandala offering and offered representations of the body, speech and mind of enlightenment.

A procession of Mönpa people in traditional costume bearing a variety of offerings began to pass through the temple. Ling Rinpoché gave His Holiness nectar and pills of longevity and the long-life arrow. He then presented him with trays bearing the eight auspicious symbols, seven royal emblems and eight auspicious substances.

During the recitation of the prayer for His Holiness’s long life by his two tutors, Chief Minister Pema Khandu offered him a statue of Jé Tsongkhapa. His Holiness was offered ‘tsog’. Representatives of the Mönpa community came before the throne to pay their respects. Among them was a young boy called Lhagyala Rinpoché.

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu offering His Holiness the Dalai Lama a statue of Jé Tsongkhapa during the Long Life Ceremony at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 7, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

His Holiness addressed the congregation. “Since we’re all gathered here for this Long-Life Ceremony, I’m going to give a transmission of a Guru Yoga practice called ‘Stairway to the Potala’. It begins, ‘Homage to Lokeshvara, Lord of the Universe’ and continues, ‘On my crown, upon a seat of lotus and moon, sits my root teacher, who is inseparable from Supreme Noble Avalokiteshvara, the Lord of the World, with one face and four hands — the first two folded in prayer while the two remaining hands hold a crystal rosary and the stem of a white lotus in full bloom’. He is the embodiment of all refuges.

“All of us here are practitioners of Avalokiteshvara,” His Holiness announced, “Let’s recite the six-syllable mantra together.” For several minutes the temple hummed to the chanting of Om mani padme hung.

His Holiness then completed the transmission and read the colophon at the end which described how he came to compose it while he was still in Tibet. ‘Having been requested, with the offering of a mandala, to compose a new Guru Yoga text that would be easy to practice for farmers living in villages and people who are illiterate, who need to learn it by heart from those who help by reciting it for them, this ‘Extremely Short Guru Yoga of Avalokiteshvara’ was written by the Buddhist monk Ngawang Lobsang Tenzin Gyatso, an upholder of the Buddha’s Teaching at the Palace of Good Fortune (Kalsang Phodrang) in Norbulingka (Tibet).’

His Holiness the Dalai Lama addressing the congregation during the Long Life ceremony at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 7, 2024. Photo by Ven Zamling Norbu

“Since we left Tibet and came into exile I’ve been able to serve people extensively around the world from India. This Long-Life Ceremony has been organized by the Mönpas. These were the people who came to greet me and showed deep respect, when I left Tibet many of them touching their heads to my feet. Mönyul is where I entered India and, as I say, I was very moved by the devotion of the people.

”Today you have organized this ceremony for which I thank you. I pray that Avalokiteshvara will bless you and fulfil all your short and long-term goals. That’s all.”

The Chant-master recited various expressions of auspiciousness and the Prayer of the Words of Truth. The following verse made a fitting dedication:

May I never be separated from my perfect Guru throughout my lives
May I reach the state of Vajradhara
May the sublime precious bodhichitta grow where it has not grown
And where it has grown may it not decline but increase.

His Holiness left the temple, and, as he walked to the lift, stopped here and there to greet members of the crowd. Down in the courtyard he again waved to well-wishers before boarding the golf cart that carried him home to his residence,

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The Yoga of the Inseparability of the Guru and Avalokiteshvara https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/the-yoga-of-the-inseparability-of-the-guru-and-avalokiteshvara Don Eisenberg https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/the-yoga-of-the-inseparability-of-the-guru-and-avalokiteshvara Thekchen Chöling, Dharamsala, HP, India - This morning Ven Professor Samdhong Rinpoché walked through the courtyard, escorted by Lama Ngawang Norbu, an MLA from Arunachal Pradesh, and the Chairman of the Committee organizing today’s teachings and tomorrow’s Long-Life Ceremony. Reaching the Tsuglagkhang, the Main Tibetan Temple, he took his seat to the left of which sat present and former officials of the Central Tibetan Administration, while to the right were Mönpa people from Arunachal Pradesh. Rinpoché explained why he was there.

Ven Professor Samdhong Rinpoché speaking at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, on September 6, 2024. Photo by Lobsang Tsering

“There had been a plan for His Holiness the Dalai Lama to teach today and attend a Long-Life Ceremony tomorrow. However, the plan changed and I was asked to teach on his behalf. Listening to me today you will not necessarily create a Guru disciple connection with me.”

The ‘Heart Sutra’ was recited, tea was served and a mandala offering was made.

Rinpoché quoted a verse from Jé Tsongkhapa’s ‘Song of Spiritual Experience’:

This life of liberty surpasses a wish-granting jewel,
And you will find the like of it only this once.
It is rare, easily lost and brief as lightning in the sky.
With this in mind, understand that all worldly actions
Are like chaff in the wind, so you must constantly
Make best use of this life, both day and night.
I, a yogi, practised in this way,
You who aspire to liberation should do likewise.

“This precious human life is like a wish-fulfilling jewel. It is difficult to find and easily lost. If you cannot take advantage of this opportunity, there will be no greater cause for regret. You should not think you’ll find such a life again in the future. Therefore, set aside mundane activities and engage in spiritual practice.

“The Kadampa masters used to say, ‘If I don’t die in the next couple of months, I’ll do my best to create the causes for a better life in the future. If I don’t die for the next couple of years, I’ll do my best to create the causes for the lasting happiness of enlightenment.’ To do this we should rely on a proper teacher and enter into the practice of the Three Trainings.

“We are going to go through this Guru-Yoga practice, seeing His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Avalokiteshvara as inseparable. I’ll read the text slowly without making much comment. Whatever degree of practice of the being of three capacities you engage in, none can be done without the guidance of a Guru. In Tibet we see the Guru as the root of the path.

Ven Professor Samdhong Rinpoché addressing the congregation at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, on September 6, 2024. Photo by Lobsang Tsering

“The source of the Stages of the Path genre is Atisha’s ‘Lamp for the Path’. However, he made no reference to relying on a Guru. Tsongkhapa’s Treatises on the Stages of the Path have different outlines. In them we find explanations of how to rely on a Guru. Jé Rinpoché asked Manjushri the best way to make practice short and swift and he told him to see the Guru as inseparable from the deity. So Jé Rinpoché practised accordingly.

“There is reliance on the Guru in action and thought. When you do Guru-Yoga practice you do it in connection with the meditational deity with whom you have a special link. This text takes an approach that accords with the Guru-Yoga in Highest Yoga Tantra.”

Rinpoché noted that the main disciples for today’s teaching were people from Arunachal Pradesh, particularly those from Mön-yul. The deity with whom these people have a special connection is Avalokiteshvara, he who generated the awakening mind of bodhichitta before thousands of Buddhas.

The books of Kadam mention that Avalokiteshvara has special links with the Land of Snow, an area that comprises the Himalayan Region, places where people employ language based on four vowels and 30 consonants. Upali asked how this place should be identified. In the Vinaya it is written that the place where in winter if you pour water into an open vessel and it freezes into ice is known as the Land of Snows.

Also, the Land of Snows is a place where sentient beings were not tamed by the previous Buddhas. Indeed, it fell to the fourth Buddha of this fortunate aeon, Shakyamuni to do that. And it was prophesied that Avalokiteshvara, the embodiment of all the Buddhas’ compassion, the essence of the path, would be the patron deity of the Land of Snows.

“In this Guru-Yoga practice in which we see the meditational deity and the Guru as inseparable,” Ven Samdhong Rinpoché continued, “we visualize the six-syllable mantra, the supreme mantra at the Guru-Deity’s heart. We can explain the six syllables in terms of the Six Perfections. These are the antidotes to mental afflictions and obstructions to knowledge.

Members of the audience sitting in the courtyard watching Ven Professor Samdhong Rinpoché teaching at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, on September 6, 2024. Photo by Ven Zamling Norbu

“The Guru who shows the unmistaken path is here inseparable from Avalokiteshvara, who is the embodiment of compassion just as Manjushri is the embodiment of wisdom. If we can combine compassion with an understanding of emptiness we will attain Buddhahood.

“The text advises ‘Sit in the Vairochana posture with a straight back and so forth. Visualize your Guru and Avalokiteshvara as one—the object of refuge. In order to take refuge, we should fear the lower realms, the cycle of existence and obstructions to knowledge and be confident that the Three Jewels can protect us.

“In Tibet we take refuge and generate the awakening mind together saying—'I take refuge in the Three Jewels until I’m enlightened.’ All the Buddhist traditions of Tibet take this approach. We think— ‘By whatever collection of merit and wisdom I gather, may I serve sentient beings.’ In this way we restore and reinforce the Bodhisattva vows we have already taken. Next, we make the Four Immeasurable Wishes beginning with— ‘May all sentient beings have happiness and the causes of happiness. Then we purify the place in which we are going to invite the field of merit. We bless, increase and present offerings. We reflect— ‘By the power of truth of the Three Jewels, may these offerings become suchness. May they become great.’

“Visualizing the field of merit, we see a throne supported by lions on which rest a lotus seat with sun and moon cushions. On this sits the supreme Arya Lokeshvara, our supreme Guru, possessing the three kindnesses. He is smiling and pleased. His right hand is at his heart in the gesture of giving teaching, his thumb and index finger holding the stem of a lotus that supports a scripture and a sword. The other three fingers indicate the Three Trainings.

“In his left hand, in the gesture of meditative equipoise, rests a thousand spoked wheel. He wears the three robes of a monk and a golden Pandit’s hat.

“At his heart rests the exalted wisdom being Avalokiteshvara with one face and four arms. Over his left shoulder is draped the skin of an antelope. At his heart is the absorption being Hrih. He becomes the embodiment of all objects of refuge.

A view inside the Main Tibetan Temple during Ven Professor Samdhong Rinpoché's teaching in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 6, 2024. Photo by Lobsang Tsering

“Having cultivated this visualization we perform the Seven Limb Prayer that includes prostrating, offering, confession and so forth. When you prostrate to the Guru-Deity imagine your body multiplied countless times. Then present an array of owned and unowned offerings. Make confession of how, overwhelmed by the darkness of ignorance, you have broken your vows and become involved with natural downfalls. Engage the four opponent factors—taking refuge, cultivating the awakening mind, generating sincere regret and resolving not to repeat such deeds in the future.

“What follows is rejoicing—the best way to accumulate merit and wisdom. Then request the Guru-Deity to awaken all sentient beings from the sleep of obstructions to omniscience and mental afflictions. Entreat him to remain firmly on the vajra throne. Make a dedication keeping in mind that the goal is the attainment of Buddhahood, to achieve which we need the care of a kind Lama. Conclude with a mandala offering.

“The blessings of the Guru in the form of nectars and rays flow down from his heart and enter the crown of your head. Recite the Guru’s name mantra.

“Review the Stages of the Path beginning by recognizing the difficulty of finding this life of freedom and fortune and how it is easily lost. Think, ‘Please bless me to practise the Three Trainings—ethics, concentration and wisdom.’

“In the practice of a being of great capacity think of the sufferings of our kind mother sentient beings and the wish to relieve them. Cultivate the yoga that unites the calmly abiding mind with special insight.

“’Having entered the gate of profound mantra—bless me to guard my vows and commitments. Having cut the all-creating karmic wind with the sharp sword of wisdom, bless me to realize the mahamudra of great bliss.’”

In the practice of absorption that involves the Guru dissolving into your heart he approaches you, diminishing in size, dissolves into you. He comes to rest at your heart on the eight-petalled lotus at the centre of which is the indestructible drop. This has existed since beginningless time and persists right through to Buddhahood.

At the heart of the triple-stacked deity is Hrih surrounded by the six-syllable mantra Om mani padme hung. Recite the mantra as much as you can and then stabilize it by reciting the hundred syllable mantra of Vajrasattva. Dedicate the merit thus created for the spread of the Dharma and for lasting peace in the world.

Ven Samdhong Rinpoché then gave a reading transmission of a shorter Guru-Yoga text.

“We are very fortunate,” he added, “that we have had the opportunity to hold this discourse and to have received teachings from His Holiness. If you can practise the complete path to enlightenment, that would be excellent. Meanwhile we need to strengthen peace and harmony in our communities and to work to keep up our cultural traditions. Let’s dedicate whatever merit we’ve earned to the good health and long life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.”

Lama Ngawang Norbu offered a thanksgiving mandala to Ven Samdhong Rinpoché. The congregation recited the prayer of the Words of Truth.

Lama Ngawang Norbu and the Chairman of the Organizing Committee then escorted Ven Samdhong Rinpoché through the courtyard back to the gate of the Phodrang.

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Meeting with Representatives of the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/meeting-with-representatives-of-the-ramon-magsaysay-award-foundation Don Eisenberg https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/meeting-with-representatives-of-the-ramon-magsaysay-award-foundation Thekchen Chöling, Dharamsala, HP, India - This morning, the Board of Trustees of the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation (RMAF), which is based in Manila, in the Philippines, launched a seven-volume series entitled Greatness of Spirit about previous recipients of the award in the presence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The publication commemorates the 65th anniversary of the establishment of the award.

Susanna B. Afan, President of the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation, launching a seven-volume series entitled Greatness of Spirit about previous recipients of the award in the presence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama at his residence in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 4, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

His Holiness was one of the earliest recipients when he was granted the award in 1959 and it was the first international award that he received. The Ramon Magsaysay Award celebrates the best of humanity, embodying the true essence of ‘Greatness of Spirit’.

Susanna B. Afan, President and Cecilia L. Lazaro, Chairperson of (RMAF) met His Holiness at the door to the audience hall and escorted him to his seat. Ms Afan wished His Holiness good morning and reminded him that she came to Dharamsala last year to present him the medal that they had been unable to physically present to him 65 years ago.

This year she was accompanied by six Ramon Magsaysay Award Laureates, the Board of Trustees and friends. She introduced some Awardees from India—Aruna Roy, TM Krishna, Harish Hande, Anshu Gupta—and Conchita Carpio Morales from the Philippines, as well as the Board of Trustees past and present.

Ms Afan requested His Holiness to speak to them.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama speaking to Ramon Magsaysay Award Laureates, the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation Board of Trustees and friends during their meeting at his residence in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 4, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

“I was born in the North-eastern part of Tibet in a very remote part of Amdo,” he began. “Then, when I was about three or four years old, I came to Lhasa in Central Tibet, which is where I began my studies of Buddhist philosophy, logic and so forth. My teachers were brilliant. Once I had completed my formal studies in 1959 I took the examinations for the Geshé degree.

“When circumstances in Tibet changed, I had to flee into exile in India. Here I was able to meet people from many different walks of life and I found that what I had learned in Tibet was very beneficial. Along with Buddhist philosophy I also studied the views of other Indian schools such as the Samkhyas, Vaisheshikas and so forth. Here in India I was able to meet with people who upheld these various views. In addition, I was able to meet and hold discussions with modern scientists from the West.

“As part of the curriculum in the Buddhist Monastic Centres of Learning in Tibet, we studied logic, which was very helpful when it came to holding discussions with scientists and people from other religious traditions.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama addressing the congregation during the meeting with Ramon Magsaysay Award Laureates, the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation Board of Trustees and friends at his residence in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 4, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

“In addition to non-Buddhist views we studied the various Buddhist schools of thought. As a result, I discovered I was an adherent of the Prasangika Madhyamika school of thought. Consequently, if I were to be confronted (in debate) by someone who followed the Svatantrika Madhyamika school of thought I would be able to hold my own. I discovered that the Prasangika Madhyamika use of logic is the best way to tackle such challenges.

“This logic of the Prasangika Madhyamika school is something I use every day in my meditation on emptiness. As soon as I wake up in the morning, I meditate and my meditation mainly comprises two principles—altruism, the awakening mind of bodhichitta and emptiness. I feel that if he were alive today I might be considered one of the students able to sit beside the great master Nagarjuna in terms of my understanding of emptiness.

“Besides this I consider India’s ancient principle of non-violence to be very precious. There may be differences of view between the various schools of Indian philosophy, but they all have non-violence in common. I have been familiar with this practice since I was a child. So, while I observe the practice of non-violence in my day-to-day life, I also share it with my friends. I encourage them to incorporate non-violence into their own lives.

Ramon Magsaysay Award Laureates, the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation Board of Trustees, and His Holiness the Dalai Lama pose for a group photo at the conclusion of their meeting at his residence in Dharamsala, HP, India on September 4, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Choejor

“When I look at how the world is today, I feel it’s very important that we practise non-violence. Everyone wishes to see peace in the world, we talk about peace in the world, and if we are to achieve, it we need to raise awareness of the value of non-violence.”

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His Holiness the Dalai Lama Returns to Dharamsala https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/his-holiness-the-dalai-lama-returns-to-dharamsala Don Eisenberg https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/his-holiness-the-dalai-lama-returns-to-dharamsala Thekchen Chöling, Dharamsala, HP, India - This morning His Holiness the Dalai Lama returned to Dharamsala at the end of his journey from New York, where for the last two months he has received medical treatment for his knees. After a stopover in Zurich he continued on to Delhi, where yesterday he took a day’s rest.

Local Hindu leaders receiving His Holiness the Dalai Lama with a ceremonial lamp at the Kangra Airport in Gaggal, HP, India on August 28, 2024. Photo by Tenzin Phende / CTA

Today, the weather was favourable for the Dharamsala flight, which took off on time and landed almost half-an-hour early. As is customary, His Holiness was met at Gaggal airport by Sikyong Penpa Tsering and Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament Ven. Khenpo Sonam Tenphel. Also assembled to welcome him were local representatives of various faith traditions—Hinduism, Christianity, Islam and Buddhism—and sundry well-wishers. His Holiness greeted them warmly.

Large numbers of Tibetans gathered to welcome His Holiness at Civil Lines, on the Hari Koti corner, outside the Men-tsee-khang, by the gate to Gangchen Kyishong and on the road below and beside the Tsuglagkhang—the Main Tibetan Temple. Monks and nuns wore their yellow Dharma robes, while laypeople were dressed in their best clothes. Many of them had white silk scarves and glowing incense in their hands and their faces were full of joy. His Holiness waved and smiled cheerfully at them as he passed.

Members of the Tibetan and local communities lining the road to welcome His Holiness the Dalai Lama on his arrival at the Main Tibetan Temple complex in Dharamsla, HP, India on August 28, 2024. Photo /by Ngawang Tsepak / CTA

Three groups of Tashi Shölpa dancers sang and danced energetically at the airport, at the gate to Gangchen Kyishong and close by the Tsuglagkhang.

Former Kalöns, Secretaries and senior officials of the Central Tibetan Administration gathered around the gate to His Holiness’s residence, saluting him as his car passed. One of them remarked that there was a general feeling that this morning Dharamsala had come back to life.

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The Tibetan Community in Switzerland and Liechtenstein Offers Long Life Prayers https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/the-tibetan-community-in-switzerland-and-liechtenstein-offers-long-life-prayers Don Eisenberg https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/the-tibetan-community-in-switzerland-and-liechtenstein-offers-long-life-prayers Zurich, Switzerland - When His Holiness the Dalai Lama walked onto the stage at the Hallenstadion in Zurich today, before a capacity crowd of 15,000, he saluted the Tashi Shölpa dancers performing their dance to welcome him. He took his seat on the throne before large thangka paintings of the Buddha Shakyamuni, Four Armed Avalokiteshvara and White Tara.

Thinley Chökyi, Representative of the Office of Tibet, Geneva, delivering her opening statement at the start of the Long Life Prayer Offering for His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the Hallenstadion in Zurich, Switzerland on August 25, 2024. Photo by Manuel Bauer

A Tibetan compere introduced Thinley Chökyi, Representative of the Office of Tibet, Geneva. Addressing His Holiness as the crown jewel among gods and kings, a champion of world peace, she respectfully welcomed him and paid him homage on behalf of Tibetans in Switzerland and other countries in Europe.

She declared that Tibetans around the world are doing their best to resolve the conflict between China and Tibet following His Holiness’s lead. She added that they were pleased to be able to offer prayers for His Holiness’s long life out of gratitude as he stopped in Zurich on his way back to India from the US after successful knee replacement surgery.

“May you yet be able to return to Tibet, take your seat on the Lion Throne in the Potala Palace and offer teachings from there once more,” she prayed.

She ended by offering thanks to the various authorities in Zurich for enabling Tibetans to hold this event today.

A group of Tibetan singers and dances sang in praise of His Holiness, referring to him as the protector and embodiment of compassion. A group of Lamas sitting at the foot of the throne recited a verse for taking refuge in the Three Jewels and a verse that summarizes the Perfection of Wisdom teachings. They made a mandala offering and began a symbolic rendition of a ceremony seeking a Lama’s long life.

A group of Tibetan singers and dancers singing in praise of His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the start of the Long Life Prayer Offering at the Hallenstadion in Zurich, Switzerland on August 25, 2024. Photo by Manuel Bauer

As they chanted the prayer for His Holiness’s longevity composed by his tutors, Ling Rinpoché and Trijang Rinpoché, symbols of the seven royal emblems, the eight auspicious symbols, the eight auspicious substances, and so forth were presented to him. Next, the prayer for His Holiness’s long life composed by Jamyang Khyentsé Chökyi Lodrö was recited, concluding, “May you live long and may your enlightened deeds spread everywhere.”

His Holiness then spoke to the audience: “Today, people have gathered here out of faith and devotion from Switzerland and other European countries. We Tibetans are imbued with the teaching of the Buddha. We have an unwavering faith in it, which begins when we are children reciting the verse for taking refuge and cultivating the awakening mind, as well as the mantra, Om mani padmé hum.

“I’ve had the opportunity to study and practise Buddhist teachings since I was a small child and I’ve found they have a quite scientific basis. Indeed, these days scientists come to see me taking interest in Buddhist instruction about non-violence and compassion.

“Because we Tibetans value kindness, warm-heartedness and compassion we ae able to demonstrate these qualities to other people. We have known great hardship because of the harsh restrictions imposed by the Chinese Communists, but our faith and devotion to the teachings of the Buddha has not let up.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama addressing the congregation at the Hallenstadion in Zurich, Switzerland on August 25, 2024. Photo by Manuel Bauer

“When I was a small boy, I was taken to Kumbum Monastery where I witnessed young monks reciting Manjushri’s mantra, Om ara patsa nadhi. I was inspired and imitated them. Our culture has left such imprints on us.

“In the past, people in the outside world didn’t know much about Tibetan Buddhism, but as time has gone by more people have taken an interest in it. They are especially attracted by instructions about the workings of the mind and emotions and ways to cultivate positive qualities within us. Even in China faith and understanding of the Buddhadharma has grown.

“Since the time of the kings Songtsen Gampo and Trisong Detsen we have become accustomed to Buddhism being part of our lives. It’s part of their kind legacy that we have such single-pointed faith today. Wherever Tibetans are they have a strong sense of ethics and faith in the teachings of the Buddha. Even people who don’t think of themselves as religious recognize that Tibetan Buddhism includes many solutions to the problems we face today.

“Because Buddhism is a major part of our culture, we should work to keep it alive. We can do this by observing ethics and cultivating a warm heart, bearing in mind that religious practice without ethics is like wearing a mask.

“On the other hand, cultivating warm-heartedness is the essence of religion. Cultivating the awakening mind of bodhichitta involves the intention to bring happiness to all sentient beings. It enables you to fulfil the goals of others and yourself.

A view from the stage at the Hallenstadion in Zurich, Switzerland as His Holiness the Dalai Lama addresses the capacity crowd of 15,000 during Long Life Prayers offered to him by the Tibetan Community in Switzerland and Liechtenstein on August 25, 2024. Photo by Manuel Bauer

“When I was in Beijing Mao Zedong praised my scientific turn of mind, but at the same time he remarked that religion is poison. However, I feel that if he were alive today, he would better understand why it’s worth following what the Buddha taught.”

As he conducted a brief ceremony for cultivating the awakening mind of bodhichitta, His Holiness recommended thinking of all sentient beings as having been our kind mothers. In an effort to repay that kindness we should make a strong determination to bring benefit and happiness to all sentient beings. And having generated bodhichitta we should call on all sentient beings as our guests at a feast of happiness.

“We’ve found this precious human life and to make it meaningful we should cultivate kindness and a good heart. If I may say so, the ultimate reason you have faith in me is because I teach about bodhichitta and the view of emptiness. As I’ve told you before, the moment I wake up in the morning, I meditate on the awakening mind and having generated that supreme thought I invite all sentient beings as my guests.

“The awakening mind of bodhichitta is the key to fulfilling your own and others’ goals. At the same time negative thoughts such as anger and pride subside.

Members of the Tibetan community watching as His Holiness the Dalai Lama addresses the gathering at the Hallenstadion in Zurich, Switzerland on August 25, 2024. Photo by Manuel Bauer

“Imagine an assembly of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas in the space before you... Not so long ago in Bodhgaya I was attending a function in a large temple when I imagined the Buddha before me. He called me to him, spoke to me kindly and stroked my head. He seemed pleased with me, but all I had to offer was a single chocolate which I gave to him... Now, please recite these verses three times after me.”

I seek refuge in the Three Jewels;
Each and every wrongdoing I confess.
I rejoice in the virtues of all beings.
I take to heart the state of Buddhahood.

I go for refuge until I am enlightened
To the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Supreme Assembly,
In order to fulfil the aims of myself and others
I develop the awakening mind.

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

“Now you can rejoice.”

Today my birth is fruitful. My human life is justified. Today I have been born into the family of the Buddha. Now I am a child of the Buddha.

So that there may be no blemish upon this spotless family, I must now act as becomes my family.

“You should make yourselves familiar with the Bodhisattva vows that are listed in the Six Session Guru Yoga.

A view of the stage at the Hallenstadion in Zurich, Switzerland during Long Life Prayers offered to His Holiness the Dalai Lama by the Tibetan Community in Switzerland and Liechtenstein on August 25, 2024. Photo by Manuel Bauer

“‘Entering into the Way of a Bodhisattva’ says:

A well-intentioned person who thinks, "I shall eliminate the headaches of sentient beings," gives rise to immeasurable merit. 1/21

What then of a person who desires to remove the incomparable pain of every single being and endow them with immeasurable good qualities? 1/22

“The awakening mind of bodhichitta brings us peace of mind and subdues our destructive emotions. It creates a restful state of mind.”

His Holiness gave the transmission of the mantra of Buddha Shakyamuni and Avalokiteshvara, the patron deity of Tibet, by asking those assembled to recite them after him.

Representative Thinley Chökyi offered a thanksgiving mandala. Dedication prayers were said. A statement of accounts was made announcing how much money had been given and how much remained. A group of young performers sang auspicious lines by way of conclusion.

Young Tibetan performers singing auspicious lines to conclude the Long Life Prayer Offering for His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the Hallenstadion in Zurich, Switzerland on August 25, 2024. Photo by Manuel Bauer

The ceremony came to an end with the recitation of a verse from the ‘Prayer of the Words of Truth’ that His Holiness composed in 1960.

Thus, the protector Chenrezig made vast prayers
Before the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas
To fully embrace the Land of Snows;
May the good results of these prayers now quickly appear.

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The Tibetan Community of North America Offers Long Life Prayers https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/the-tibetan-community-of-north-america-offers-long-life-prayers Don Eisenberg https://www.dalailama.com/news/2024/the-tibetan-community-of-north-america-offers-long-life-prayers New York City, NY, USA - As His Holiness the Dalai Lama prepares to return to India after two months in the United States receiving medical treatment, the Tibetan Community of North America and their American friends, a capacity crowd of 17,000 people, filled the UBS Arena to offer prayers for his long life.

A view of the UBS Arena filled to capacity of 17,000 members of the Tibetan community and friends to attend Long Life Prayers for His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Elmont, NY, USA on August 22, 2024. Photo by Sonam Zoksang

The backdrop to the stage was decorated with large thangka paintings of the Buddha Shakyamuni, Avalokiteshvara and White Tara. Monks, with Abbots and former Abbots in the front rows, sat around the throne. In the hall Tibetan dancers in traditional costume sang words of welcome. Monks playing horns led the way as His Holiness walked onto the stage and took his seat on the throne.

His Holiness’s representative at the Office of Tibet, Dr Namgyal Choedup, told His Holiness how pleased everyone present was to welcome him among them and to have the opportunity to offer sincere prayers for his long life. He thanked all those who had been part of the medical team treating His Holiness, as well as those who provided hospitality to him and his entourage.

A group of 400 Tibetan children in the well of the hall sang verses wishing that His Holiness live long. The Chant Master then led a recitation of the mandala offering.

A group of 400 Tibetan children singing verses wishing His Holiness the Dalai Lama to live long during the Long Life Offering ceremony at the UBS Arena in Elmont, NY, USA on August 22, 2024. Photo by Sonam Zoksang

His Holiness addressed the congregation: “Here we have Tibetans from all three regions of Tibet demonstrating how we are united. Tibetan culture can be of benefit to the whole of humanity. The Buddha, Shakyamuni, became enlightened and gave teachings that have been preserved in Tibet and the Himalayan region. These teachings are profound and deeply valuable. I have studied them since I was very young.

“The Buddha’s teachings have influenced our way of life to the extent that the people of Tibet have been determined to keep them alive. I intend to live to be more than 100 years old and I will continue to do my best to help the Tibetan people.

“Chinese Communists may look down on Tibetan culture, but across the world we have friends who appreciate it. In Tibet we have the most complete transmission of the Buddha’s teachings. As Tibetans have spread out across the world other people have become more aware of our traditions. We have many loyal friends who I’d like to thank. People around the world are taking an interest in Buddhism and even in China there are many curious to learn about Tibetan Buddhism.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama addressing the congregation during the Long Life Offering ceremony at the UBS Arena in Elmont, NY, USA on August 22, 2024. Photo by Sonam Zoksang

“Today, I’ll give a short instruction on generating the awakening mind of bodhichitta. It’s simple but powerful. By cultivating bodhichitta we can fulfil the interests and needs of others and ourselves. Fundamentally we wish—May I become a Buddha to benefit all wandering beings.”

His Holiness recited the verse for taking refuge in the Three Jewels and generating the awakening mind. He asked the audience to repeat it after him three times. He declared that he has followed the Buddha’s teachings and generated the wish to become a Buddha in order to benefit beings over many lifetimes. He invited his listeners to make a similar commitment.

“Having done that, we can rejoice.”

His Holiness the Dalai Lama reciting verses for generating the awakening mind during the Long Life Offering ceremony at the UBS Arena in Elmont, NY, USA on August 22, 2024. Photo by Sonam Zoksang

His Holiness then gave the transmission of the mantras of Buddha Shakyamuni, Arya Tara, Avalokiteshvara, Manjushri, Hayagriva, the Medicine Buddha and Guru Rinpoché. He first recited them and then invited the congregation to repeat them with him.

“There are many different religious traditions in the world, and I respect them all. But it is Buddhism that has caught the interest of scientists because it’s founded on logic. Buddhism also has great potential for fostering world peace.

“You’ve all shown unwavering faith and you’ve done a good job keeping our religion and culture alive. Please keep it up and make your prayers with joy.”

The Chant Master led concise prayers for His Holiness’s long life in the course of which appropriate offerings were presented to him. The ceremony was completed with a mandala offering.

Representative Dr Namgyal Choedup addressed the crowd once more to express especial gratitude to Carol and Sam Nappi for their generous help coordinating the arrangements that ensured that His Holiness’s knee replacement surgery was a success and for their subsequent exceptional hospitality as he recuperated. Mr and Mrs Nappi approached the throne and His Holiness thanked them personally. The audience cheered.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama thanking Carol and Sam Nappi for the hospitality during his recuperation at the end of the Life Offering ceremony at the UBS Arena in Elmont, NY, USA on August 22, 2024. Photo by Sonam Zoksang

Liaison Officer Kunga Tashi thanked everyone who had worked hard and contributed to today’s long-life ceremony. Following the moving performance of a song from the Tibetan operatic tradition, the Chant Master recited the dedication prayers that concluded the proceedings. Before leaving the stage, His Holiness walked to the front, where he smiled and waved to the congregation who waved and proffered white silk scarves in return.

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