The 90th birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, the revered Tibetan spiritual leader, was celebrated with deep reverence and festivity in Chandmari, Gangtok, on Saturday. The celebration highlighted not only his spiritual influence, but also his enduring global message of non-violence, compassion, and harmony. The event, organized by the Tibetan Settlement Office and the Tibetan community in Gangtok, drew a large gathering of devotees, local citizens, and dignitaries. The Chief Guest was Sikkim Legislative Assembly Speaker Mingma Norbu Sherpa, while other prominent attendees included Member of Parliament Indra Hang Subba, Director General of Police Akshay Sachdeva, and Syari MLA Tenzing Lamtha. In a symbolic and significant gesture, the Kashag, the governing council of the Central Tibetan Administration, officially declared 2025 as the ‘Year of Compassion’. The announcement called on global citizens to embrace and spread the Dalai Lama’s teachings of kindness, mindfulness, environmental responsibility, and peaceful coexistence.
The declaration was welcomed with loud applause and chants of long life for His Holiness. Prayer ceremonies, traditional Tibetan performances, and heartfelt tributes made the day both spiritual and emotionally moving. Delivering a powerful message, Lok Sabha MP Indra Hang Subba said, “When the world is facing so much disorder and wars are raging across continents, the presence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in India is not just symbolic—it is spiritually and morally significant.” He described the Dalai Lama’s presence in India as a “profound blessing”, especially at a time when violence, polarization, and global crises have unsettled many nations. “His Holiness teaches us that peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but the presence of compassion, understanding, and inner strength,” Subba said. He also extended wishes to the Tibetan leader on behalf of the people of Sikkim, reaffirming unwavering support for the institution of the Dalai Lama and its continued role in promoting peace and harmony globally.
Speaking at the event, DGP Akshay Sachdeva praised the Dalai Lama as “an epitome of love and harmony.” He emphasized that His Holiness’s teachings transcend religion and politics, and resonate with people of all beliefs and backgrounds. “In a world torn by violence, hatred, and division, His Holiness remains a unifying force, reminding humanity of the power of compassion and understanding,” he said.The celebration was also a tribute to the resilience and cultural identity of the Tibetan exile community, many of whom have lived in India since 1959, when the Dalai Lama sought refuge after fleeing Chinese repression in Tibet. Despite decades in exile, the Tibetan community has remained deeply rooted in their values and traditions, with the Dalai Lama continuing to serve as their spiritual and moral compass.Traditional dances, songs, and ceremonial offerings made the celebration vibrant and emotionally stirring. The air was filled with joy, prayers, and chants wishing the Dalai Lama a long and healthy life.MP Indra Hang Subba also recalled Sikkim’s historic connection with the Tibetan cause, stating, “India and Sikkim have always stood by His Holiness. His presence is vital to the moral and cultural fabric of our region.” He noted that Sikkim shares spiritual and cultural ties with the Tibetan community, and said that the people of Sikkim remain committed to supporting Tibetan identity, values, and autonomy.