Grand commemoration marks 75 yrs of Dalai Lama’s leadership

The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) today hosted a grand commemoration at Tsuglagkhang to mark the 75th anniversary of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s assumption of spiritual and temporal leadership of Tibet. The ceremony, imbued with reverence and gratitude, was graced by His Holiness himself and attended by dignitaries, former officials and hundreds of Tibetans and supporters.

Among the distinguished guests were Her Excellency Dr Eliska Zigova, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to India, and Yashbir Singh, IFS, Liaison Officer from India’s Ministry of External Affairs. Former Liaison Officers and police officials who had previously served His Holiness in Dharamsala also joined the gathering.

The event opened with symbolic offerings led by Tibetan Chief Justice Commissioner Yeshi Wangmo, Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel and Sikyong Penpa Tsering, who presented a Mandala along with sacred representations of the Buddha’s body, speech and mind. Alumni representatives from Tibetan schools across India and Nepal also joined in the ceremonial offerings.

Statements from the Kashag and the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile were read by Sikyong Penpa Tsering and Speaker Tenphel, highlighting His Holiness’ steadfast leadership since the age of 16. The statements recalled his persistent efforts to negotiate peace during the early years of the Tibet–China conflict, the introduction of the Middle Way Approach and his sweeping democratic reforms for the Tibetan community in exile.

Speakers paid special tribute to His Holiness’ lifelong commitment to education. The President of the Gratitude Event Organising Committee noted that despite immense political strain, His Holiness prioritised schooling for Tibetan refugee children—a vision that led to near-universal literacy among Tibetans in exile.

Mementoes were presented to His Holiness by former Tibetan Parliamentarian Tashi Namgyal, TCV President Sonam Sichoe, and THF General Secretary Migmar Tsering, followed by a gratitude song performed in his honour. Alumni also presented a plaque to the people and the Government of India for their unwavering support since 1959.

In her keynote address, Ambassador Zigova praised His Holiness’ “extraordinary courage and compassion,” recalling the young Dalai Lama taking on national responsibility at 16 and later establishing schools for refugee children. She expressed admiration for the students’ education and cultural grounding, offering prayers for His long life.

A new book authored by Lobsang Jinpa, Secretary to His Holiness, was also launched during the ceremony. After His Holiness departed, students from various Tibetan schools presented colourful cultural performances, bringing the day’s celebrations to a joyful close.