July 6 was the birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, and Tibetans and other supporters celebrated his birthday in Tibetan settlements across India and in cities around the world.
The official ceremony for the birthday celebration was held in Bylakuppe, Karnataka, India. Eminent leaders of various religions and top Indian government officials, including the Chief Ministers of Karnataka and Arunachal Pradesh, joined the celebration.
The Dalai Lama, in his address to thousands gathered on the day, said that the best gift for him would be for everyone to be warmhearted. Sikyong Lobsang Sangay, who was also present at the celebration, reiterated “the Central Tibetan Administration’s firm commitment to the Middle Way Approach in resolving the Tibet issue”.
Birthday celebrations also took place in the Dalai Lama’s current home of Dharamsala. The 17th Gyalwang Karmapa Rinpoche and top members of the Central Tibetan Administration joined throngs of Tibetans and well-wishers to observe cultural songs and dances at the Dalai Lama’s temple in McLeod Ganj, Tsuklakhang.
In Delhi, hundreds of Tibetans gathered at the Tibetan Children’s Village day school at the Samyeling settlement.
Around the world, large receptions and celebrations took place in Japan, Belgium, Korea, Australia, Taiwan, UK, France and various locations across South Africa.
His Holiness was born to a peasant family in Taktse, Kumbum in Northern Tibet in 1935.