The Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibet, celebrated his 88th birthday on Thursday, receiving warm wishes from various individuals and leaders around the world. Notably, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reached out to the Dalai Lama to convey his greetings on the special occasion.

PM Modi tweeted, “Spoke to His Holiness @DalaiLama and conveyed heartfelt greetings to him on his 88th birthday. Wishing him a long and healthy life.”

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Spoke to His Holiness <a href="https://twitter.com/DalaiLama?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DalaiLama</a> and conveyed heartfelt greetings to him on his 88th birthday. Wishing him a long and healthy life.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1676849309248258048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, the spiritual leader also released a video message, in which he prayed “to be able to bring peace to the world and spread an understanding of the oneness of humanity.”

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<h2>Why is PM Modi's birthday wish&nbsp;significant?</h2>

The exchange of phone calls and public announcements between the Indian Prime Minister and the Tibetan spiritual leader hold&nbsp;significant diplomatic importance due to the strained relations between Beijing and the Dalai Lama.&nbsp;

The Chinese government refers to the Dalai Lama as a "splittist," while India has consistently emphasised the need for both sides to respect each other's sensitivities, interests, and concerns.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-chinas-exit-bans-prevent-tibetans-from-visiting-dalai-lama-in-india-safeguard-defenders-to-wion-588212">Exclusive: China's exit bans prevent Tibetans from visiting Dalai Lama in India</a>

Although the Dalai Lama resides in exile, his followers in Tibet and around the world celebrate his birthday with great enthusiasm. The main temple of the Dalai Lama in Mcleodganj became the centre of festivities for the Tibetan community in exile today. The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, also attended the birthday celebrations.

<h2>Dalai Lama: The symbol of resistance against China</h2>

It is worth noting that since his voluntary retirement from his political role within the Tibetan government in exile in 2011, the Dalai Lama refrains from delivering any political messages on the occasion of his birthday. Instead, he focuses on his spiritual teachings and humanitarian endeavours.

Watch:&nbsp;Happy Birthday Dalai Lama: The 14th Dalai Lama turns 88

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Despite relinquishing his temporal authority, the Dalai Lama continues to symbolise the Tibetan resistance against Chinese rule in Tibet. However, Tibetans in exile have been concerned that the Chinese government might attempt to manipulate the selection of the Dalai Lama's successor. Despite being in exile for over six decades, the Dalai Lama maintains a significant following in Tibet.

To address this issue, the Tibetan government in exile has repeatedly emphasised that the Dalai Lama has the exclusive right to choose his successor.&nbsp;

This sentiment was also supported during a recent convention of world parliamentarians held in the United States.

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The Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibet, celebrated his 88th birthday on Thursday, receiving warm wishes from various individuals and leaders around the world.

The Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibet, celebrated his 88th birthday on Thursday, receiving warm wishes from various individuals and leaders around the world. Notably, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reached out to the Dalai Lama to convey his greetings on the special occasion. PM Modi tweeted, “Spoke to His Holiness @DalaiLama and conveyed heartfelt greetings to him on his 88th birthday. Wishing him a long and healthy life.” Spoke to His Holiness @DalaiLama and conveyed heartfelt greetings to him on his 88th birthday. Wishing him a long and healthy life. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2023 × Earlier, the spiritual leader also released a video message, in which he prayed “to be able to bring peace to the world and spread an understanding of the oneness of humanity.” × Why is PM Modi's birthday wish significant? The exchange of phone calls and public announcements between the Indian Prime Minister and the Tibetan spiritual leader hold significant diplomatic importance due to the strained relations between Beijing and the Dalai Lama. The Chinese government refers to the Dalai Lama as a "splittist," while India has consistently emphasised the need for both sides to respect each other's sensitivities, interests, and concerns. Also read: Exclusive: China's exit bans prevent Tibetans from visiting Dalai Lama in India Although the Dalai Lama resides in exile, his followers in Tibet and around the world celebrate his birthday with great enthusiasm. The main temple of the Dalai Lama in Mcleodganj became the centre of festivities for the Tibetan community in exile today. The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, also attended the birthday celebrations. Dalai Lama: The symbol of resistance against China It is worth noting that since his voluntary retirement from his political role within the Tibetan government in exile in 2011, the Dalai Lama refrains from delivering any political messages on the occasion of his birthday. Instead, he focuses on his spiritual teachings and humanitarian endeavours. Watch: Happy Birthday Dalai Lama: The 14th Dalai Lama turns 88 × Despite relinquishing his temporal authority, the Dalai Lama continues to symbolise the Tibetan resistance against Chinese rule in Tibet. However, Tibetans in exile have been concerned that the Chinese government might attempt to manipulate the selection of the Dalai Lama's successor. Despite being in exile for over six decades, the Dalai Lama maintains a significant following in Tibet. To address this issue, the Tibetan government in exile has repeatedly emphasised that the Dalai Lama has the exclusive right to choose his successor. This sentiment was also supported during a recent convention of world parliamentarians held in the United States. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Tibetan leader Dalai Lama turns 88, receives birthday wishes from Indian PM Narendra Modi

Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama will be on a visit to the Union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh next week. He will visit Jammu on 14th July, and Ladakh on 15th July. This is the first such visit by the Buddhist leader in over 2 years from his abode in Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh.

The visit takes place even as the Buddhist leader's birthday on Wednesday saw a major celebration in Dharamshala and Delhi and greetings by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and chief ministers of several states like Odisha. In a tweet PM Modi said that he had spoken to the spiritual leader, adding, "We pray for his long life and good health." The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh Jai Ram Thakur was the chief guest at the celebration organized in Dharamshala, which hosts the headquarters of the Tibetan government in exile.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-himachal-cm-is-chief-guest-at-dalai-lamas-birthday-celebrations-says-penpa-tsering-494333">Dalai Lama's 87th birthday celebrated in Nepal amid high security</a>

In Delhi, while the Tibetan colony saw a celebration, a reception hosted by the Tibetan government in exile saw the presence of 2 Indian ministers of state-- MoS for culture and ministry of external affairs Meenakshi Lekhi and Mos for Law S. P. Singh Baghel. Both ministers, officials present at the reception said, were present in a personal capacity. Minister Lekhi in her statement said, "India was not the country where he (Dalai Lama) was not born, but India is one country which he loves and respects as his own. He is someone who adopted India as his mother and adopted son, but nevertheless son of India, as he says".

Watch |&nbsp;WION Exclusive: Himachal CM is Chief Guest at Dalai Lama's birthday celebrations says Penpa Tsering

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The reception was attended by many foreign ambassadors and diplomats, including Russian diplomats. America's top diplomat (Chargé D’Affaires) Patricia Lacina &amp; Taiwan's envoy to India, Baushuan Ger were also present. The visit and the mega celebrations are expected to irk China, given its uneasy ties with the Tibetan spiritual leader. Dalai Lama fled Tibet in 1959 after the invasion and annexation of the region by China. So far, no reaction has come from Beijing.

The development comes even as India, China ties have slipped into negative terrain in the last 2 years since the Galwan incident at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in 2020. Chinese aggressive action in Galwan led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers, even as Beijing remained mum on its own count for a long time before accepting its losses.

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/himachal-cm-to-be-chief-guest-at-dalai-lamas-birthday-celebrations-prez-of-tibetan-govt-in-exile-493736">Himachal CM to be chief guest at Dalai Lama's birthday celebrations:&nbsp;Prez of Tibetan govt in exile</a>

On Thursday, both the Indian foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar and the Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi met on the sidelines of the G20 foreign ministers meeting in Bali, Indonesia. This is the 2nd such in-person meeting between the two leaders this year, after Wang Yi's Delhi visit in March. The session could lead to a leadership-level meeting between PM Modi and the Chinese President in Uzbekistan's Samarkand in Mid-September on the side-lines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit.

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama will be on a visit to the Union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh next week. He will visit Jammu on 14th July, and Ladakh on 15th July.

Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama will be on a visit to the Union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh next week. He will visit Jammu on 14th July, and Ladakh on 15th July. This is the first such visit by the Buddhist leader in over 2 years from his abode in Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. The visit takes place even as the Buddhist leader's birthday on Wednesday saw a major celebration in Dharamshala and Delhi and greetings by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and chief ministers of several states like Odisha. In a tweet PM Modi said that he had spoken to the spiritual leader, adding, "We pray for his long life and good health." The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh Jai Ram Thakur was the chief guest at the celebration organized in Dharamshala, which hosts the headquarters of the Tibetan government in exile. Also read | Dalai Lama's 87th birthday celebrated in Nepal amid high security In Delhi, while the Tibetan colony saw a celebration, a reception hosted by the Tibetan government in exile saw the presence of 2 Indian ministers of state-- MoS for culture and ministry of external affairs Meenakshi Lekhi and Mos for Law S. P. Singh Baghel. Both ministers, officials present at the reception said, were present in a personal capacity. Minister Lekhi in her statement said, "India was not the country where he (Dalai Lama) was not born, but India is one country which he loves and respects as his own. He is someone who adopted India as his mother and adopted son, but nevertheless son of India, as he says". Watch | WION Exclusive: Himachal CM is Chief Guest at Dalai Lama's birthday celebrations says Penpa Tsering The reception was attended by many foreign ambassadors and diplomats, including Russian diplomats. America's top diplomat (Chargé D’Affaires) Patricia Lacina & Taiwan's envoy to India, Baushuan Ger were also present. The visit and the mega celebrations are expected to irk China, given its uneasy ties with the Tibetan spiritual leader. Dalai Lama fled Tibet in 1959 after the invasion and annexation of the region by China. So far, no reaction has come from Beijing. The development comes even as India, China ties have slipped into negative terrain in the last 2 years since the Galwan incident at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in 2020. Chinese aggressive action in Galwan led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers, even as Beijing remained mum on its own count for a long time before accepting its losses. Also read | Himachal CM to be chief guest at Dalai Lama's birthday celebrations: Prez of Tibetan govt in exile On Thursday, both the Indian foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar and the Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi met on the sidelines of the G20 foreign ministers meeting in Bali, Indonesia. This is the 2nd such in-person meeting between the two leaders this year, after Wang Yi's Delhi visit in March. The session could lead to a leadership-level meeting between PM Modi and the Chinese President in Uzbekistan's Samarkand in Mid-September on the side-lines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Dalai Lama to visit Union territories of J&K, Ladakh

From conflict with China to Nobel Peace Prize: Journey of the Dalai Lama

Penpa Tsering, the President of the Tibetan government in exile who is based out of India’s Dharamshala city, has said that the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Jai Ram Thakur, will be the chief guest at the birthday of his holiness Dalai Lama next week, which is on July 6. The development shows growing engagement by the sitting functionaries of the Indian government. Notably, last time Indian PM Modi had spoken to Dalai Lama and wished him on his birthday.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION’s Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Penpa Tsering, who is the Sikyong of the Central Tibetan Administration, said, "Dalai&nbsp;Lama is well regarded by the international community. As PM Modi wished him on his birthday last year. we have the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh this year as our chief guest for his holiness's birthday.”

China is known to get miffed over engagements with the Dalai Lama or members of the Tibetan leadership in exile. Sikyong Tsering was in Washington a few days ago where he participated in the&nbsp;8th World Parliamentarians Convention on Tibet which was addressed by Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the United States House of Representatives.

Interestingly, the US&nbsp;Congressional-Executive Commission on China held a hearing on the Sino-Tibet conflict and how to deal with Beijing's narrative on Tibetan history, particularly it being an independent state.&nbsp;

Asked about Dalai Lama's reincarnation debate and China staking claim to appoint the next highest spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, Sikyong&nbsp;Tsering said, "A communist government that doesn't believe in religion itself cannot be responsible for recognition of re-incarnation of his Holiness the Dalai Lama. His Holiness' reincarnation is solely dependent on the decision of his Holiness."

Excerpts

WION: Can you talk about your Washington visit to the 8th World Parliamentarians Convention on Tibet from 22nd to 23rd June, which saw the participation of Nancy Pelosi.

Penpa Tsering: The world Parliamentarians convention on Tibet took place first in 1994 in India, then in Lithuania, 1997 in Washington, so we came back to Washington DC after 25 years. 4th, 5th such conventions were held in Scotland, in Rome, 7th in Latvia and this is the 8th Parliamentarians convention on Tibet and 28 nations participated in this in hybrid form. At the inaugural, Speaker Nancy Pelosi was present and the President of the international campaign for Tibet, Richard Gere, was also present. Speaker Pelosi has been very kind and supportive of the Tibet issue and is committed to the cause of Tibet. She was very categorical in countering disinformation on Tibet, and historical narrative on Tibet and expressed strong support. Congressman Jim McGovern is also the co-chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China. He, along with speaker Pelosi, has decided to organise a hearing on the historical status of Tibet to counter misinformation on the narrative on the historical status of Tibet as an independent state by experts. China's propaganda has been very strong and almost every country recognises Tibet as part of the People's Republic of China. That needs to be countered. The hearing was held in Congress for the first time, and they also plan to move a bill in the house in the coming days.

&nbsp;

WION: How significant do you see that hearing on Tibet at the US Congress. It looks like both the administration and Congress have been actively engaging on Tibetan issues.

Penpa Tsering: I would like to thank President Biden for appointing Uzra Zeya as US Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues just one year after coming to the office and that at the level of undersecretary. When I was in the US in April-May, we met her, then she also came to India and Nepal the following month. So, the progress and interest from the United States government have been very strong and very consistent. Then the hearing on the hill, on the historical narratives, termed as barriers to resolving the Sino-Tibet conflict. Unfortunately, not many people read Tibetan history, and China has been saying Tibet was part of China since the 7th century, and they could not hold, then they said Tibet was part of China from the 13th century, that also could not hold, then the 18th century, that also could not hold. At one point, they were saying Tibet was part of China since antiquity, and now they are talking about Tibet being part of China since time immemorial. So, if we don't counter China's narratives, you don't get the middle way approach. People don't realize that Tibet was an independent country and his holiness Dalai Lama, considering the reality in Tibet, decided to step down from independence to a middle-way approach, seeking negotiated mutually beneficial lasting solution for the Sino-Tibet conflict. On that count, the hearing is significant and it is on record of the US Congress that Tibet was not part of China.

&nbsp;

WION: How do you see the G7 statement mentioning Tibet and Xinjiang, calling on China to respect universal human rights and fundamental freedoms?

Penpa Tsering: Right now, because of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, everybody is focusing on Russia, but the US, NATO and G7 recognise the fact that China is a long-term competition and a challenge to the global democratic world order. In that sense, G7 mentioning Tibet on fundamental human rights is significant and shows a shift in the policies, focusing on the Sino-Tibet conflict. Really appreciate the G7 for coming out with a statement, not just on Tibet but also Uyghurs. I prefer to call it Uyghurs instead of Xinjiang because that is the name given by China, which indulsdges in Sinicisation, including names. Now if you go to the Tibetan map, it will be very difficult to read Tibetan names, because it's all Sinicisation. They call Tibet as Xizang, which is not acceptable.

&nbsp;

WION: The Chinese president has gone to Hong Kong. How do you see the visit?

Penpa Tsering: China has already gone against international law, so what has been agreed between the British and the Chinese after the takeover in 1997, China has trampled on all those agreements and then there were developments in the last few years. And now Hong Kong guys are spread all over the world as refugees. President Xi has not travelled outside China for more than 2 years, and people believe that he will not travel internationally. So, Hong Kong, now more or less under China, the visit may in a way be President Xi's message to the world that Hong Kong is very much part of China, and that they are trying to improve economic conditions but without freedom, it's very difficult to engage with China.

&nbsp;

WION: Dalai Lama’s birthday is coming. A lot of celebrations are planned. What is the Tibetan leadership and the parliament planning, and do you see world leaders congratulating the Dalai Lama?

Penpa Tsering: This has always been there, his holiness, Dalai Lama is well regarded by the international community and you remember PM Modi wishing him on his birthday last year. So, this year, we have the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh as our chief guest for his holiness's birthday. But we won't be celebrating on a large scale because of the Covid. Of course, now his holiness is ageing and now it's a concern since he is going to turn 87. We are happy about the fact that his holiness is keeping very healthy.

&nbsp;

WION: Do you expect&nbsp;congratulations&nbsp;from the Indian PM and do you expect a meeting as well, His Holiness Dalai Lama meeting PM?

Penpa Tsering: The meeting, I suppose, will happen only when His Holiness comes down to Delhi. Not during his Holiness's birthday, because the PM is not travelling there, and his holiness is not coming here. Following last year's trend, I am sure there will be many wishes from the international community, including India.

&nbsp;

WION: There are concerns as to who will be the next Dalai Lama, his reincarnation. China has its own view and they are appointing the next Dalai Lama. What is the viewpoint of the Tibetan leadership vis-a-vis what China has been saying?

Penpa Tsering: His Holiness's reincarnation is solely dependent on the decision of his Holiness because he is going to be reincarnated. A communist government that doesn't believe in religion itself cannot be responsible for the recognition of the re-incarnation of his Holiness, the Dalai Lama. Even if they come up with another candidate, as reincarnated Dalai Lama, that will not be accepted, not only by Tibetans but by the whole world community. The US government has already taken a position on this in the form of an amendment to the 2002 Tibet Policy Act, now called the Tibet Policy and Support Act 2020, that I think many countries will replicate. As far as His Holiness is concerned, according to some predictions, His Holiness is predicted to live up to 113 years of age, so right now it is too early to talk about his reincarnation. He will live for long.

Penpa Tsering, the President of the Tibetan government in exile who is based out of India’s Dharamshala city, has said that the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Jai Ram Thakur, will be the chief guest at the birthday of his holiness Dalai Lama next week, which is on July 6.

Penpa Tsering, the President of the Tibetan government in exile who is based out of India’s Dharamshala city, has said that the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Jai Ram Thakur, will be the chief guest at the birthday of his holiness Dalai Lama next week, which is on July 6. The development shows growing engagement by the sitting functionaries of the Indian government. Notably, last time Indian PM Modi had spoken to Dalai Lama and wished him on his birthday. Speaking to WION’s Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Penpa Tsering, who is the Sikyong of the Central Tibetan Administration, said, "Dalai Lama is well regarded by the international community. As PM Modi wished him on his birthday last year. we have the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh this year as our chief guest for his holiness's birthday.” China is known to get miffed over engagements with the Dalai Lama or members of the Tibetan leadership in exile. Sikyong Tsering was in Washington a few days ago where he participated in the 8th World Parliamentarians Convention on Tibet which was addressed by Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the United States House of Representatives. Interestingly, the US Congressional-Executive Commission on China held a hearing on the Sino-Tibet conflict and how to deal with Beijing's narrative on Tibetan history, particularly it being an independent state. Asked about Dalai Lama's reincarnation debate and China staking claim to appoint the next highest spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, Sikyong Tsering said, "A communist government that doesn't believe in religion itself cannot be responsible for recognition of re-incarnation of his Holiness the Dalai Lama. His Holiness' reincarnation is solely dependent on the decision of his Holiness." Excerpts WION: Can you talk about your Washington visit to the 8th World Parliamentarians Convention on Tibet from 22nd to 23rd June, which saw the participation of Nancy Pelosi. Penpa Tsering: The world Parliamentarians convention on Tibet took place first in 1994 in India, then in Lithuania, 1997 in Washington, so we came back to Washington DC after 25 years. 4th, 5th such conventions were held in Scotland, in Rome, 7th in Latvia and this is the 8th Parliamentarians convention on Tibet and 28 nations participated in this in hybrid form. At the inaugural, Speaker Nancy Pelosi was present and the President of the international campaign for Tibet, Richard Gere, was also present. Speaker Pelosi has been very kind and supportive of the Tibet issue and is committed to the cause of Tibet. She was very categorical in countering disinformation on Tibet, and historical narrative on Tibet and expressed strong support. Congressman Jim McGovern is also the co-chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China. He, along with speaker Pelosi, has decided to organise a hearing on the historical status of Tibet to counter misinformation on the narrative on the historical status of Tibet as an independent state by experts. China's propaganda has been very strong and almost every country recognises Tibet as part of the People's Republic of China. That needs to be countered. The hearing was held in Congress for the first time, and they also plan to move a bill in the house in the coming days. WION: How significant do you see that hearing on Tibet at the US Congress. It looks like both the administration and Congress have been actively engaging on Tibetan issues. Penpa Tsering: I would like to thank President Biden for appointing Uzra Zeya as US Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues just one year after coming to the office and that at the level of undersecretary. When I was in the US in April-May, we met her, then she also came to India and Nepal the following month. So, the progress and interest from the United States government have been very strong and very consistent. Then the hearing on the hill, on the historical narratives, termed as barriers to resolving the Sino-Tibet conflict. Unfortunately, not many people read Tibetan history, and China has been saying Tibet was part of China since the 7th century, and they could not hold, then they said Tibet was part of China from the 13th century, that also could not hold, then the 18th century, that also could not hold. At one point, they were saying Tibet was part of China since antiquity, and now they are talking about Tibet being part of China since time immemorial. So, if we don't counter China's narratives, you don't get the middle way approach. People don't realize that Tibet was an independent country and his holiness Dalai Lama, considering the reality in Tibet, decided to step down from independence to a middle-way approach, seeking negotiated mutually beneficial lasting solution for the Sino-Tibet conflict. On that count, the hearing is significant and it is on record of the US Congress that Tibet was not part of China. WION: How do you see the G7 statement mentioning Tibet and Xinjiang, calling on China to respect universal human rights and fundamental freedoms? Penpa Tsering: Right now, because of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, everybody is focusing on Russia, but the US, NATO and G7 recognise the fact that China is a long-term competition and a challenge to the global democratic world order. In that sense, G7 mentioning Tibet on fundamental human rights is significant and shows a shift in the policies, focusing on the Sino-Tibet conflict. Really appreciate the G7 for coming out with a statement, not just on Tibet but also Uyghurs. I prefer to call it Uyghurs instead of Xinjiang because that is the name given by China, which indulsdges in Sinicisation, including names. Now if you go to the Tibetan map, it will be very difficult to read Tibetan names, because it's all Sinicisation. They call Tibet as Xizang, which is not acceptable. WION: The Chinese president has gone to Hong Kong. How do you see the visit? Penpa Tsering: China has already gone against international law, so what has been agreed between the British and the Chinese after the takeover in 1997, China has trampled on all those agreements and then there were developments in the last few years. And now Hong Kong guys are spread all over the world as refugees. President Xi has not travelled outside China for more than 2 years, and people believe that he will not travel internationally. So, Hong Kong, now more or less under China, the visit may in a way be President Xi's message to the world that Hong Kong is very much part of China, and that they are trying to improve economic conditions but without freedom, it's very difficult to engage with China. WION: Dalai Lama’s birthday is coming. A lot of celebrations are planned. What is the Tibetan leadership and the parliament planning, and do you see world leaders congratulating the Dalai Lama? Penpa Tsering: This has always been there, his holiness, Dalai Lama is well regarded by the international community and you remember PM Modi wishing him on his birthday last year. So, this year, we have the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh as our chief guest for his holiness's birthday. But we won't be celebrating on a large scale because of the Covid. Of course, now his holiness is ageing and now it's a concern since he is going to turn 87. We are happy about the fact that his holiness is keeping very healthy. WION: Do you expect congratulations from the Indian PM and do you expect a meeting as well, His Holiness Dalai Lama meeting PM? Penpa Tsering: The meeting, I suppose, will happen only when His Holiness comes down to Delhi. Not during his Holiness's birthday, because the PM is not travelling there, and his holiness is not coming here. Following last year's trend, I am sure there will be many wishes from the international community, including India. WION: There are concerns as to who will be the next Dalai Lama, his reincarnation. China has its own view and they are appointing the next Dalai Lama. What is the viewpoint of the Tibetan leadership vis-a-vis what China has been saying? Penpa Tsering: His Holiness's reincarnation is solely dependent on the decision of his Holiness because he is going to be reincarnated. A communist government that doesn't believe in religion itself cannot be responsible for the recognition of the re-incarnation of his Holiness, the Dalai Lama. Even if they come up with another candidate, as reincarnated Dalai Lama, that will not be accepted, not only by Tibetans but by the whole world community. The US government has already taken a position on this in the form of an amendment to the 2002 Tibet Policy Act, now called the Tibet Policy and Support Act 2020, that I think many countries will replicate. As far as His Holiness is concerned, according to some predictions, His Holiness is predicted to live up to 113 years of age, so right now it is too early to talk about his reincarnation. He will live for long.

Himachal CM to be chief guest at Dalai Lama's birthday celebrations: Prez of Tibetan govt in exile

When China occupied Tibet and massacred thousands of innocent Tibetans in the early 1950s, His Holiness the Dalai Lama had to flee Tibet and he came to India as a refugee.

When China occupied Tibet and massacred thousands of innocent Tibetans in the early 1950s, His Holiness the Dalai Lama had to flee Tibet and he came to India as a refugee. Now, the Dalai Lama has completed 85 years of life, of which around 60 years have been spent in India. He has been preaching love, harmony and peace for several decades and he was honoured with Nobel Prize for his efforts. Certainly, India is benefitting by his presence, as he symbolizes the qualities of compassion and hatred for none. Many Indians have been inspired by his thoughts and speeches and consider him as an embodiment of culture. The Dalai Lama now remains as the tallest Buddhist leader in the world. What is particularly noteworthy is that despite the great harm that China has done to Tibet and the abuses that China has been hurling at the Dalai Lama for several decades, he has not spoken severely against China at any time. Remarkably, the Dalai Lama does not consider even China as his enemy, despite it’s unethical and aggressive behaviour and this is a unique quality that a person should possess to be hailed as a world leader par excellence. While India has given refugee status to the Dalai Lama and Tibetans and the Dalai Lama has strictly remained without indulging in political activities as directed by Government of India, it is not known that Government of India has acknowledged this aspect of the Dalai Lama’s during his stay in India for several decades now. It is high time that India should suitably honour His Holiness the Dalai Lama on his 85th birth anniversary, as he has enriched India with his noble thoughts and advocacies for harmony, by touring all over India and delivering lectures advocating peace and love, just as several other great Indian philosophers have done in the past. The Dalai Lama has clearly said on several occasions in recent times that he is no more interested in political activities and he is dedicated to the cause of universal brotherhood. One can say with confidence that Dalai Lama is now the conscience keeper of the world, as he is one of the very few leaders in the world who has been stressing on the need for amity and goodwill between everyone, by remaining as a role model for world civilization. When several countries have honoured the Dalai Lama for his contribution to the promotion of world harmony and Nobel prize has been awarded to him, it is conspicuous that India has not suitably honoured him so far, even though he spent most of his lifetime in India. India did a great mistake in the early 1950s when India approved the occupation of Tibet by China and did not object in any meaningful way to the massacre of thousands of innocent protestors in Tibet by the Chinese army. With the Dalai Lama now in the ripe age of 85 years, India should clear it’s conscience for its unethical approval of China’s occupation of Tibet earlier, by conferring The Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding to the Dalai Lama. This is most appropriate to do so since it was Jawaharlal Nehru, the then Prime Minister of India, who kept silent for whatever reasons when China occupied Tibet and the Dalai Lama had to flee to India. Jawaharlal Nehru was a peace-loving man and he would certainly be happy, wherever he is now, that the mistake done by him would be corrected now by conferring the award that was named after Jawaharlal Nehru to the Dalai Lama, the apostle of peace. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Honour Dalai Lama on his 85th birth anniversary

Ken Juster, US Ambassador to India, wished Dalai Lama on his 85th birthday. ''On behalf of US Government and the American people, we congratulate His Holiness Dalai Lama on his 85th birthday,''Juster said.

Ken Juster, US Ambassador to India, wished Dalai Lama on his 85th birthday. ''On behalf of US Government and the American people, we congratulate His Holiness Dalai Lama on his 85th birthday,''Juster said. ''It is our privilege to work with His Holiness to advance the values that Americans and Tibetans share,'' he added. Dalai Lama released of an album of mantras and teachings on his 85th birthday on Monday. On behalf of US Government & the American people, we congratulate His Holiness Dalai Lama on his 85th birthday. It is our privilege to work with His Holiness to advance the values that Americans & Tibetans share: Ken Juster, US Ambassador to India pic.twitter.com/asNhAN7Olh — ANI (@ANI) July 6, 2020 × The record came about when musician Junelle Kunin, a student of the Dalai Lama from New Zealand, contacted him in 2015 with the idea - and much to her surprise he said yes. The release comes five years after Patti Smith led the crowd at Britain's Glastonbury Festival singing Happy Birthday to him for his 80th.

US Ambassador to India Ken Juster wishes Dalai Lama on his 85th birthday

Authorities here have stopped the Tibetan community from holding events to commemorate the 84th birthday of their spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, over security concerns.

The Nepal government beefed up security in areas inside the Kathmandu valley, where Tibetan refugees and people of Tibetan origin reside, ahead of Dalai Lama's birthday, The Himalayan Times reported.

The 14th Dalai Lama, Lhamo Thondup, who was born on July 6, 1935, is known for his messages of unity and compassion.

He has exiled himself in Dharamshala in India ever since the rebellion against the Chinese rule in 1959.

To mark his birthday, Tibetan refugees and people of Tibetan origin planned to hold several events in the valley in the weekend.

One of the places where the programme was scheduled to be held was Mustang Gumba in Swoyambhunath, according to high-level security sources.

"But police have been dispatched to the place to halt the programme," a security source was quoted as saying.

The programme, according to security sources, was to be attended by senior diplomats from western countries, including the United States, Germany and the United Kingdom.

"These diplomats have expressed serious concerns about the forced cancellation of the event, which is a severe violation of rights of people of the Tibetan community," a western diplomat said on condition of anonymity.

The Nepal government generally intervenes in events organised by the Tibetan community stating Nepal is committed to 'One China Policy'.

"We stop any event that goes against this policy," Spokesperson for the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ram Krishna Regmi, said.

This, however, does not mean people of Tibetan community cannot celebrate the occasions, the source added.

"They can do so privately at their homes. They are only barred from organising events in public places, including hotels," he said.

Authorities here have stopped the Tibetan community from holding events to commemorate the 84th birthday of their spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, over security concerns.

Authorities here have stopped the Tibetan community from holding events to commemorate the 84th birthday of their spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, over security concerns. The Nepal government beefed up security in areas inside the Kathmandu valley, where Tibetan refugees and people of Tibetan origin reside, ahead of Dalai Lama's birthday, The Himalayan Times reported. The 14th Dalai Lama, Lhamo Thondup, who was born on July 6, 1935, is known for his messages of unity and compassion. He has exiled himself in Dharamshala in India ever since the rebellion against the Chinese rule in 1959. To mark his birthday, Tibetan refugees and people of Tibetan origin planned to hold several events in the valley in the weekend. One of the places where the programme was scheduled to be held was Mustang Gumba in Swoyambhunath, according to high-level security sources. "But police have been dispatched to the place to halt the programme," a security source was quoted as saying. The programme, according to security sources, was to be attended by senior diplomats from western countries, including the United States, Germany and the United Kingdom. "These diplomats have expressed serious concerns about the forced cancellation of the event, which is a severe violation of rights of people of the Tibetan community," a western diplomat said on condition of anonymity. The Nepal government generally intervenes in events organised by the Tibetan community stating Nepal is committed to 'One China Policy'. "We stop any event that goes against this policy," Spokesperson for the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ram Krishna Regmi, said. This, however, does not mean people of Tibetan community cannot celebrate the occasions, the source added. "They can do so privately at their homes. They are only barred from organising events in public places, including hotels," he said.

Nepal halts Tibetans from holding Dalai Lama's birthday celebrations

By Devanshi Verma &amp; Raunak Sharma

Tenzin Gyatso was enthroned as the 14th Dalai Lama when he was five years old. At the outset of the 1959 Tibetan uprising, he along with his retinue fled to India. Some time later, the 23-year-old set up the Government of Tibet in Exile in Dharamshala, which is often referred to as &#39;Little Lhasa&#39;. 80,000 Tibetan refugees followed him into exile. As he celebrates his 82nd birthday in Ladhak, we explore the settlement of his faithful disciples in the capital of the country he took refuge in.

Tranquility in the midst of chaos

An ornamental&nbsp;gate&nbsp;that looks like a piece of mystical art, stands tall at the entrance of New Aruna Nagar colony. On entering, one is a spectator to winding alleys, faint echoes of Dalai Lama&#39;s preachings, amiable women in traditional Tibetan attire selling street delicacies in the courtyard, two majestic monasteries, aromatic air and chiming prayer bells singing a melody. With Yamuna river on one side and national highway full of maddening traffic on the other, a Tibetan colony peacefully takes refuge in the middle of Delhi&rsquo;s hustle-bustle. &lsquo;Majnu Ka Tila&rsquo;, as the area is known, may be geographically a part of India&rsquo;s capital, but in its cultural and existential essence, is a different world altogether.

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A t-shirt on sell shows, Tibet will forever be in Tibetan&#39;s heart (WION)
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While hopping through grocery stores that sold authentic Tibetan spices, Yak cheese as well as Chinese biscuits and sodas, we noticed something head turning--a wheel on the counter rotating on its own, without any electric wire attached to it. It was a prayer wheel made of wood and operated much like a hand mill.

&quot;Om Mani Padme Hum&quot; is engraved on prayer wheels of all Tibetan temples. It means&nbsp;&quot;In dependence on the practice of a path which is an indivisible union of method and wisdom, you can transform your impure body, speech, and mind into the pure exalted body, speech, and mind of a Buddha.&quot;

&quot;Chanting the mantra out loud is equivalent to spinning the prayer wheels,&quot; explained a Lama or Tibetan monk, dressed in a red and yellow robe.

The Sanskrit mantra originated in India but later moved to Tibet. Some call it destiny and others Chinese invasion, the reason this mantra is back to India, along with its chanters. In 1960, the Chinese government adopted oppressive measures against the Tibetans, forcing these people to flee to India and save themselves from the brutality.

Although a Tibetan settlement, this area is culturally diverse, being home to other Asian immigrants--the Nepalese community being significant in number. One experiences the cultural milieu&nbsp;when a Bhutanese dish is presented by Nepali server at a Tibetan restaurant, in Delhi. Such is the beauty of Majnu ka Tila which has surely become a cultural melting pot.

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Bhutani mouth watering delicacies at Tibetan restaurant in Majnu-ka-tilla (WION)
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&lsquo;Tibet is in my heart, but I am an Indian&rsquo;

The Tibetans residing here can be divided into three broad categories--the first and foremost, who followed Dalai Lama to India in 1959. They can be accredited for the establishment of this safe haven that retains the cultural individuality of the community.

Then, there are the next generations born and brought up in India. &ldquo;Tibet is in my heart, but I am an Indian. I have never been to Tibet, only heard stories but India is where I belong--it is my home,&rdquo; says Karten Tsering, President of the Residents Welfare Association, New Aruna Nagar Colony. He calls himself an Indian and rightfully so--anybody born in the country is considered a citizen, according to the Indian constitution.

The third and the most recent generation&nbsp;constitutes&nbsp;the people who have recently come to the country in the hope of better education, employment prospects, and life. They seem to be struggling to adapt to&nbsp;the norms of a foreign country but, at least, they have companionship and familiarity, which is a major comforting factor for them. In a country far away from home, they have found a hope with the flame of a free Tibet illuminating their hearts.

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Beautiful Tibetan artifacts home this store in Majnu-ka-tilla (WION)
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Home away from home

A middle-aged woman on a street-side stall sold Laphing--spicy cold jelly noodle dish served with soya chunks. Although she had a constant serene smile on her face, her face reads of suffering. She was compelled to leave Tibet because of the &lsquo;political outburst&rsquo; and the scars happened to remain. However, she is now content here. Even though she has been selling food on the streets for the past four years, she has managed to send off her children to study outside Delhi--son to Dharamshala and daughter to Mussoorie. These places also have Tibetan roots and they long to stay connected.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Speaking to a man in his late 50s, we discovered the other side of lives of Tibetan refugees in India. He was manning the desk at one of the numerous hotels that play a major role in the economy of the area. Spending 40 years in Indian states of Meghalaya, Karnataka and now Delhi, he is still struggling with basic necessities--a reason he did not marry. For a person who cannot keep his stomach full, it will be an added responsibility to support an entire family. He was never sure if he could provide them with a roof and chose the nomadic life. This is a shivering reality of most of them.

However, despite the air of melancholy surrounding these people, still, they continue to smile. 
&nbsp; 
Gratefulness, diplomacy, silent agony

Meeting with the local association&rsquo;s authorities, we understood that suffering is not limited to just the trauma of a lost home. Though these refugees get aid from the government and have legal rights but, deep down, are fighting a silent battle to meet the basic needs. &quot;They are doing whatever they can. If Delhi government does not have enough water, how can we expect for extended supply? Same is the case of electricity.&quot; The spokesperson seemed to be in the state of acceptance&nbsp;with whatever they are being provided with.

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Tibetan edibles- sweets, cookies and beverages (WION)
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Happy Birthday, His Holiness

Dalai Lama&rsquo;s birthday falls on 6th of July and the enthusiasm for celebrating with performances, feasts and religious ceremonies is all over the place. The authorities informed that Delhi&rsquo;s chief minister Arvind Kejriwal will be the guest of honour of the festivities.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
To them, Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader, and patron saint is the manifestation of the supreme power--their faith is quite evident as every single set-up in the vicinity has a picture of him. A glance of him is all they crave for. But surprisingly, when asked about what they would like to say to him for his birthday, the chatty 25-year-old Tsering Choephel shied away, as if he is too small or insignificant to speak to the supreme.&nbsp;

They believe that Dalai Lama helped&nbsp;them settle in India, and he alone can take them back by liberating&nbsp;Tibet from China. 
&nbsp;

Next destination: Karnataka?

However, one thing that surprised us was that everybody aspired moving to&nbsp;Karnataka. Opportunity-wise there are more options for this community out there, which may have moved these people.&nbsp;Also, space wise Bylakuppe, a Tibetan town in Karnataka is way larger than here.&nbsp;

&quot;We get food for free in the monasteries of Karnataka, better shelter, more business opportunities, climate cooler than Delhi&quot;, says a monk. Not one, but many of the Tibetans dwelling in Majnu-ka-tilla are looking forward to move to Karnataka.

As we roamed around, a Ganesha&nbsp;idol among Tibetan deities caught our attention. &ldquo;Ganesha is one of the important deities of the Tibetans,&rdquo; mentioned the young Tibetan boy manning the store. In another store owned by a Nepalese woman, a statue of their very own version of Ganesha lied on the counter.&nbsp;The Tibetan shopkeeper is only seven years old to the country. Like many others, he wishes to head to Karnataka.&nbsp;

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Tibetan Ganesha idol in idols store, Majnu-ka-tilla (WION)
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The dream of returning to Tibet still inspires them. India has provided them a home away from home but nevetheless, it is a makeshift home. Assimilation is difficult, finding jobs tough, and speaking out publicly about lack of opportunities not welcomed. A refugee is a refugee at the end of the day and they should remain grateful for whatever they are getting -- a common assumption that is true for all host countries worldwide. Thus, we may celebrate Dalai Lama as ours&nbsp;but the refugees prefer to stay in the chrysalis they have built in the &lsquo;Majnu Ka Tila&rsquo;. The outside world of bustling city of New Delhi is too alien for them.

&nbsp;

?Tibet is in my heart, but I am an Indian", says a Tibet refugee in New Delhi

By Devanshi Verma & Raunak Sharma Tenzin Gyatso was enthroned as the 14th Dalai Lama when he was five years old. At the outset of the 1959 Tibetan uprising, he along with his retinue fled to India. Some time later, the 23-year-old set up the Government of Tibet in Exile in Dharamshala, which is often referred to as 'Little Lhasa'. 80,000 Tibetan refugees followed him into exile. As he celebrates his 82nd birthday in Ladhak, we explore the settlement of his faithful disciples in the capital of the country he took refuge in. Tranquility in the midst of chaos An ornamental gate that looks like a piece of mystical art, stands tall at the entrance of New Aruna Nagar colony. On entering, one is a spectator to winding alleys, faint echoes of Dalai Lama's preachings, amiable women in traditional Tibetan attire selling street delicacies in the courtyard, two majestic monasteries, aromatic air and chiming prayer bells singing a melody. With Yamuna river on one side and national highway full of maddening traffic on the other, a Tibetan colony peacefully takes refuge in the middle of Delhi’s hustle-bustle. ‘Majnu Ka Tila’, as the area is known, may be geographically a part of India’s capital, but in its cultural and existential essence, is a different world altogether. A t-shirt on sell shows, Tibet will forever be in Tibetan's heart (WION) × While hopping through grocery stores that sold authentic Tibetan spices, Yak cheese as well as Chinese biscuits and sodas, we noticed something head turning--a wheel on the counter rotating on its own, without any electric wire attached to it. It was a prayer wheel made of wood and operated much like a hand mill. "Om Mani Padme Hum" is engraved on prayer wheels of all Tibetan temples. It means "In dependence on the practice of a path which is an indivisible union of method and wisdom, you can transform your impure body, speech, and mind into the pure exalted body, speech, and mind of a Buddha." "Chanting the mantra out loud is equivalent to spinning the prayer wheels," explained a Lama or Tibetan monk, dressed in a red and yellow robe. The Sanskrit mantra originated in India but later moved to Tibet. Some call it destiny and others Chinese invasion, the reason this mantra is back to India, along with its chanters. In 1960, the Chinese government adopted oppressive measures against the Tibetans, forcing these people to flee to India and save themselves from the brutality. Although a Tibetan settlement, this area is culturally diverse, being home to other Asian immigrants--the Nepalese community being significant in number. One experiences the cultural milieu when a Bhutanese dish is presented by Nepali server at a Tibetan restaurant, in Delhi. Such is the beauty of Majnu ka Tila which has surely become a cultural melting pot. Bhutani mouth watering delicacies at Tibetan restaurant in Majnu-ka-tilla (WION) × ‘Tibet is in my heart, but I am an Indian’ The Tibetans residing here can be divided into three broad categories--the first and foremost, who followed Dalai Lama to India in 1959. They can be accredited for the establishment of this safe haven that retains the cultural individuality of the community. Then, there are the next generations born and brought up in India. “Tibet is in my heart, but I am an Indian. I have never been to Tibet, only heard stories but India is where I belong--it is my home,” says Karten Tsering, President of the Residents Welfare Association, New Aruna Nagar Colony. He calls himself an Indian and rightfully so--anybody born in the country is considered a citizen, according to the Indian constitution. The third and the most recent generation constitutes the people who have recently come to the country in the hope of better education, employment prospects, and life. They seem to be struggling to adapt to the norms of a foreign country but, at least, they have companionship and familiarity, which is a major comforting factor for them. In a country far away from home, they have found a hope with the flame of a free Tibet illuminating their hearts. Beautiful Tibetan artifacts home this store in Majnu-ka-tilla (WION) × Home away from home A middle-aged woman on a street-side stall sold Laphing--spicy cold jelly noodle dish served with soya chunks. Although she had a constant serene smile on her face, her face reads of suffering. She was compelled to leave Tibet because of the ‘political outburst’ and the scars happened to remain. However, she is now content here. Even though she has been selling food on the streets for the past four years, she has managed to send off her children to study outside Delhi--son to Dharamshala and daughter to Mussoorie. These places also have Tibetan roots and they long to stay connected. Speaking to a man in his late 50s, we discovered the other side of lives of Tibetan refugees in India. He was manning the desk at one of the numerous hotels that play a major role in the economy of the area. Spending 40 years in Indian states of Meghalaya, Karnataka and now Delhi, he is still struggling with basic necessities--a reason he did not marry. For a person who cannot keep his stomach full, it will be an added responsibility to support an entire family. He was never sure if he could provide them with a roof and chose the nomadic life. This is a shivering reality of most of them. However, despite the air of melancholy surrounding these people, still, they continue to smile. Gratefulness, diplomacy, silent agony Meeting with the local association’s authorities, we understood that suffering is not limited to just the trauma of a lost home. Though these refugees get aid from the government and have legal rights but, deep down, are fighting a silent battle to meet the basic needs. "They are doing whatever they can. If Delhi government does not have enough water, how can we expect for extended supply? Same is the case of electricity." The spokesperson seemed to be in the state of acceptance with whatever they are being provided with. Tibetan edibles- sweets, cookies and beverages (WION) × Happy Birthday, His Holiness Dalai Lama’s birthday falls on 6th of July and the enthusiasm for celebrating with performances, feasts and religious ceremonies is all over the place. The authorities informed that Delhi’s chief minister Arvind Kejriwal will be the guest of honour of the festivities. To them, Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader, and patron saint is the manifestation of the supreme power--their faith is quite evident as every single set-up in the vicinity has a picture of him. A glance of him is all they crave for. But surprisingly, when asked about what they would like to say to him for his birthday, the chatty 25-year-old Tsering Choephel shied away, as if he is too small or insignificant to speak to the supreme. They believe that Dalai Lama helped them settle in India, and he alone can take them back by liberating Tibet from China. Next destination: Karnataka? However, one thing that surprised us was that everybody aspired moving to Karnataka. Opportunity-wise there are more options for this community out there, which may have moved these people. Also, space wise Bylakuppe, a Tibetan town in Karnataka is way larger than here. "We get food for free in the monasteries of Karnataka, better shelter, more business opportunities, climate cooler than Delhi", says a monk. Not one, but many of the Tibetans dwelling in Majnu-ka-tilla are looking forward to move to Karnataka. As we roamed around, a Ganesha idol among Tibetan deities caught our attention. “Ganesha is one of the important deities of the Tibetans,” mentioned the young Tibetan boy manning the store. In another store owned by a Nepalese woman, a statue of their very own version of Ganesha lied on the counter. The Tibetan shopkeeper is only seven years old to the country. Like many others, he wishes to head to Karnataka. Tibetan Ganesha idol in idols store, Majnu-ka-tilla (WION) × The dream of returning to Tibet still inspires them. India has provided them a home away from home but nevetheless, it is a makeshift home. Assimilation is difficult, finding jobs tough, and speaking out publicly about lack of opportunities not welcomed. A refugee is a refugee at the end of the day and they should remain grateful for whatever they are getting -- a common assumption that is true for all host countries worldwide. Thus, we may celebrate Dalai Lama as ours but the refugees prefer to stay in the chrysalis they have built in the ‘Majnu Ka Tila’. The outside world of bustling city of New Delhi is too alien for them.

How are Tibetan refugees doing as Dalai Lama celebrates his birthday