Dalai Lama BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.
The past few days have been a remarkable celebration of longevity and influence for the Dalai Lama, who turned 90 on Sunday, August 24, according to The Business Standard. The milestone triggered a week of vibrant festivities in Dharamshala and Leh, with the spiritual leader surrounded by thousands of monks, devoted followers, Indian ministers, and even Hollywood star Richard Gere. Video tributes poured in from presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton, while Taiwan’s president Lai Ching-te also joined in, underscoring his global moral authority. Throughout the gatherings, the Dalai Lama spoke movingly about his hope to live past 130 and his intent to reincarnate, reaffirming his non-profit trust’s sole authority over recognizing his successor—a direct rebuttal to China’s claim it must approve the next Dalai Lama, a standoff that drew strong international support for Tibetan autonomy.
On August 22, celebrations were held at Sindhu Ghat, Leh, invoking the River Indus and drawing tributes from the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council. His Holiness expressed gratitude for the warmth shown in Ladakh and reiterated his commitment to Buddha's teachings, especially compassion and non-violence, urging everyone to work for peace and caring for people beyond their own families, as detailed on the official Dalai Lama website. Children performed debates, traditional Ladakhi musicians played, and a short theatrical sketch celebrated his visits. Local leaders presented him tokens of gratitude and prayers for his long life, wishing for his return again and again.
August 24 featured a luncheon at Abi-Spang Spituk, Leh, hosted by the Ladakh Buddhist Association and Gonpa Association, toughing out untimely rain. On Instagram, photos of the event received tens of thousands of likes and hundreds of comments, reflecting His Holiness’s enduring social media presence. Supporters at home and abroad continue to post and share highlights from the week’s events, amplifying his reach far beyond Buddhist circles.
Just days earlier, on August 16-17, about 50,000 people attended Buddhist teachings at Shewatsel Ground in Leh, focused on mind training and long-life prayer ceremonies as reported by BrightStar Events and echoed by the Dalai Lama’s office. Spiritual seekers, local communities, and global pilgrims crowded the venue, showcasing momentum for his message of wisdom and peace.
Beyond India, events in Europe paid homage as well. The Ghoton Committee in Belgium held talks on the Dalai Lama’s four principal commitments, while Swiss Tibetan communities marked the "Year of Compassion" with special prayers and cultural performances. Public appearances, book launches, and photo exhibitions honoring his Middle Way philosophy reflect his continued international stature.
Politically, headlines remain charged. The United States publicly called on China to cease interference in succession matters, and the Dalai Lama’s public assertion—broadcast during the birthday festivities and highlighted in several news outlets—is likely to rank among the most consequential statements of 2025.
No significant health issues have been verified, though some reports noted His Holiness looked fatigued during festivities and left his birthday venue abruptly after eating cake. However, his schedule is robust, with teaching events and long-life ceremonies planned into September.
Taken together, this week’s moments—celebratory events, global accolades, spiritual gatherings, and pointed statements on succession—signal another chapter in a life intimately intertwined with the fate of Tibet and the conscience of the world.
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