Dalai Lama, 90, reflects on spiritual journey

The 14th Dalai Lama marked his 90th birthday with humility and grace and reflected on his life’s spiritual journey during a grand longevity cultural programme at the main Tibetan Buddhist monastery in McLeodganj on Saturday.

The event, organised by Buddhist communities from Southeast Asia and Korea, featured traditional performances, including a vibrant Thai peacock dance. In an emotional address, the Dalai Lama traced his path from a small village in Amdo to Lhasa and ultimately to India. “From a small village in Amdo to Lhasa, spreading the Dharma in India is my greatest achievement,” he said.

The Dalai Lama spoke of his early Buddhist education, which began with the “Logic Primer” and advanced to deep studies in texts like the Madhyamaka Darshan, Vinaya Niyam and Prajnaparamita. After earning his Geshe degree at the Jokhang Temple, he was forced to flee Tibet in 1959 due to political unrest. He recalled praying to Mahakala before seeking refuge in India. “India gave me freedom and a new path,” he said, thanking Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru for the warm welcome extended to Tibetan exiles.

“We have gathered not for entertainment, but for a spiritual purpose,” the Dalai Lama said, expressing gratitude to those who prayed for his long life. “Serving others is my resolution,” he added.