Dalai Lama Turns 90, Vows to Continue Spreading Peace as a ‘Simple Buddhist Monk’

The Dalai Lama, the revered spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, turned 90, marking the occasion with a heartfelt message that emphasized compassion, inner peace, and the continuation of his lifelong commitments. A day before his birthday, he shared a message on X (formerly Twitter), describing himself as a “simple Buddhist monk” and expressing gratitude to those celebrating the occasion. Though he usually avoids birthday celebrations, he acknowledged the initiatives taken by his followers to highlight values like compassion, altruism, and warm-heartedness.

In his birthday message, the Dalai Lama urged his followers to focus on cultivating a good heart and being compassionate to all, not just to loved ones. He stressed that while material development is important, true peace comes from inner development, which contributes to making the world a better place. This, he said, can be achieved through kindness and the nurturing of human values.

He reiterated his commitment to key missions: promoting human values, encouraging religious harmony, drawing attention to ancient Indian wisdom regarding the mind and emotions, and preserving Tibetan culture and heritage. According to the Dalai Lama, these elements have the potential to significantly benefit the world, especially by fostering peace of mind and compassion.

The Dalai Lama mentioned that he draws his daily courage and determination from Buddhist teachings and from Indian masters such as Shantideva. He quoted one of Shantideva’s aspirations: “As long as space endures, as long as sentient beings remain, until then, may I too remain to dispel the miseries of the world.” This quote reflected the Dalai Lama’s enduring commitment to serve humanity throughout his life.

Celebrations were held in McLeodganj, the spiritual headquarters of the Tibetan community in India. Events included a religious conference, youth forum, film screenings, and collective prayers for the Dalai Lama’s long life. The main prayer ceremony took place at Tsuglagkhang, the central Dalai Lama temple. There, he expressed his hope to live for another 30 to 40 years so he can continue serving the people.

The occasion also saw the presence of prominent figures. According to reports, Indian Cabinet Ministers Kiren Rijiju (a practising Buddhist) and Rajiv Ranjan Singh were scheduled to attend the birthday celebrations. Chief Ministers Pema Khandu of Arunachal Pradesh and Prem Singh Tamang of Sikkim were also expected, along with Hollywood actor and longtime friend of the Dalai Lama, Richard Gere.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm birthday wishes to the Dalai Lama via X. He called the Tibetan spiritual leader an “enduring symbol of love, compassion, patience, and moral discipline,” and added that the Dalai Lama’s message has earned respect and admiration across all faiths. Modi concluded his message by expressing prayers for the Dalai Lama’s continued good health and long life.

Overall, the 90th birthday of the Dalai Lama served not only as a celebration of a spiritual milestone but also as a global reminder of the values he embodies—compassion, peace, humility, and a lifelong dedication to humanity.