Richard Gere joins Dalai Lama's 90th birthday celebrations

Golden Globe-winning Hollywood veteran Richard Tiffany Gere joined the ongoing week-long celebrations marking the 90th birthday of the Dalai Lama in McLeodganj on Tuesday.

Gere, a long-time supporter of the Tibetan cause and Chairman of the International Campaign for Tibet, arrived in McLeodganj along with his son, Homer James Jigme Gere, to participate in the spiritual and cultural festivities. The event has drawn spiritual leaders from various faiths, dignitaries and well-wishers from around the world, all gathered to offer long life prayers for the Tibetan spiritual leader.

The father-son duo attended a significant religious ceremony at the Nechung Drayangling Monastery in Gangchen Kyishong. Speaking to a section of the media, Gere said, “I am here to celebrate His Holiness’s 90th birthday and wish him good health, strength and compassion.”

Reflecting on his personal bond with Nechung, Gere added, “Nechung is one of my oldest friends. This monastery holds special meaning for both me and my son. He’s even visited my home in the US. It’s always a joy to be here.”

As part of the day’s spiritual proceedings, the Nechung Oracle — considered one of the key protector deities of the Tibetan people — entered a trance state to bless the functionaries of the Central Tibetan Administration. The ritual was witnessed by a large gathering of monks and devotees, adding to the sanctity and significance of the occasion.