'You're More Than A Spiritual Leader': Rijiju On Dalai Lama's 90th Birthday

Dalai Lama turns 90 today. Kiren Rijiju and Pema Khandu pay heartfelt tributes during celebrations in Dharamshala. Here’s how the world is honouring the Tibetan spiritual leader.

Spiritual celebrations mark Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday at Tsuglagkhang Temple.

Source : Twitter/@KirenRijiju

Dharamshala is echoing with chants, reverence, and more as His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama is celebrating his 90th birthday today. The event witnessed participation from spiritual leaders, monks, devotees, and top dignitaries, including Union Minister Kiren Rijiju and Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu.

The celebration was marked by traditional Tibetan rituals, chants, and a Long Life Prayer ceremony, symbolising the world’s collective wish for the Dalai Lama’s continued presence and guidance. Monasteries lit butter lamps, offered khatas, and performed acts of kindness. The 14th Dalai Lama, revered as the embodiment of compassion, continues to be one of the most influential voices in global peace, ethnics, and non-violence.

Kiren Rijiju: “Dalai Lama Is A Living Bridge Between Ancient Wisdom And Modern Thought”

Addressing the gathering at the Tsuglagkhang Temple, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju delivered a heartfelt tribute to the Dalai Lama, calling him “more than a spiritual leader”.

“Your Holiness, you are a living bridge between ancient wisdom and the modern world. We feel blessed by your presence in India, your 'Aryabhoomi,' Rijiju said.

The Union Minister's remarks showcased the deep emotional and cultural bond that's shared between India and the Dalai Lama since his arrival. He also highlighted the relevance of Tibetan values in guiding ethical leadership and shaping societal peace.

#WATCH | "...Your holiness, you are more than a spiritual leader. You are a living bridge between ancient wisdom and the modern world...We feel blessed by his presence in our country, which he regards as his 'aryabhoomi'," says Union Minister Kiren Rijiju during the 90th birthday… pic.twitter.com/xeLS14orNz

— ANI (@ANI) July 6, 2025

CM Pema Khandu: “His Teachings Shape Our Governance And Education Policies”

Joining the celebrations, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu delivered an emotional speech on how Dalai Lama's teachings influence policy, governance, and education in the region. Khandu also mentioned how initiatives like value-based education and support for monastic schools stem from His Holiness's belief in shaping children not just academically, but morally and spiritually.

He added that in a world riddled with conflict and polarisation, the Dalai Lama’s message of inner peace and ethical living offers critical spiritual and humanitarian guidance.

#WATCH | Dharamshala | At the 90th birthday celebrations of the 14th Dalai Lama, Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu says, "... His teachings have influenced our governance philosophy. We draw inspiration from his principles of compassion and non-violence in shaping policies that… pic.twitter.com/XNAHjWdj56

— ANI (@ANI) July 6, 2025

A Global Icon Celebrated Across Borders

Born on July 6, 1935, in Taktser, Tibet, the Dalai Lama is considered the reincarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion. Over the decades, he has become a global icon of peace, human rights, and spiritual leadership. On this auspicious day, followers practice meditation, kindness, mantra chanting, and community service, aligning with the values the Dalai Lama has championed for decades. His advocacy has won him international acclaim, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989. As the world becomes fragmented by mental health issues, moral uncertainty, and conflict, the Dalai Lama stands as a powerful reminder of values like tolerance, inner peace, and universal responsibility.