Leh, Ladakh – Under the blazing summer sky, a crowd of nearly 50,000 people assembled at the Kalachakra Teaching Ground beside Shewatsel Phodrang to offer prayers for the long life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The two-day ceremony, filled with devotion, music, and ritual, was jointly organized by the Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA) and the Ladakh Gonpa Association (LGA).
His Holiness was welcomed with traditional drums and horns as he rode from his residence to the teaching pavilion. Stepping down from a golf cart, he paid homage to the Buddha’s image before greeting the crowd with a warm smile and a wave. The sight of monks, laypeople, and pilgrims united in reverence set a deeply moving tone for the day.
The prayers began with the recitation of the ‘Prayer of the Three Continuums’ and continued with offerings of tea, ceremonial rice, and invocations to the Buddhas and bodhisattvas. A mandala was presented, followed by a ritual centered on the ‘Prayer to the Sixteen Arhats,’ invoking protectors of the Buddha’s teachings. His Holiness partook in the tsog offering, a symbol of shared spiritual dedication.
Representatives of the organizing associations then offered symbolic gifts, including robes, alms bowls, and representations of auspicious symbols, each gesture expressing the hope for His Holiness’s long life and continued guidance. The moving chant of The Song of Immortality, composed by his tutors, filled the air as hundreds of devotees passed in procession with offerings.
In his address, His Holiness reflected on his lifelong mission. He spoke of the trust placed in him by Tibetans and Himalayan communities, of his years of study and service, and of the challenges he faced in exile. He emphasized his commitment to preserving Buddhist wisdom, especially teachings on the mind and compassion, which have drawn the interest of modern scientists worldwide.
“My Dharma brothers and sisters,” he said, “you have gathered here with fervent devotion to offer prayers for my long life. Just as you have prayed that I may live long, I will also pray that your wishes may be fulfilled.” His words were met with heartfelt applause, echoing across the vast assembly.
The ceremony carried moments of lightheartedness as well. His Holiness laughed warmly upon blessing an elderly man who appeared wearing two hats, and later accepted the Tibetan flag from a devotee, holding it with visible affection. These moments reminded the audience of his humility and human touch amid the solemn rituals.
Cultural performances by Ladakhi singers and musicians, along with children from the Tibetan Children’s Village, added further depth to the celebration. Songs honoring His Holiness’s 90th birthday blended joy with prayer, pledging to uphold compassion and warmheartedness in gratitude for his guidance.
The event concluded with a final thanksgiving mandala offering by Gaden Tripa, Jetsun Lobsang Dorjé Rinpoché, and collective prayers invoking long life for His Holiness and the flourishing of the Buddha’s teachings. As the assembly dispersed, the atmosphere remained imbued with reverence, devotion, and the unshakable hope that His Holiness will continue to inspire countless lives for many years to come.
