(TibetanReview.net, Jul08’24) – Chief Minister Mr Pema Khandu of Arunachal Pradesh, the border Indian state coveted and claimed by China as “Zangnan” (southern Tibet), has attended celebrations marking the 89th birthday of the current, 14th Dalai Lama at the birthplace of his 6th reincarnation while his deputy has attended the same event at the Dhargyeling Tibetan Settlement Camp in Tezu.
In a message on his official platform, Khandu said he felt honoured to participate in the event alongside DoKAA Chairperson Shri Jambey Wangdi, MLA Shri Namgey Tsering, the Abbot of Tawang Monastery His Eminence Tulku Thupten Tendar Rinpoche, former MLA Shri Tsering Tashi, and other distinguished guests.
Paying heartfelt tribute at Urgelling, the 6th Dalai Lama’s birthplace, the Chief Minister led a tree planting ceremony, reported indiatodayne.in Jul 6.
“This initiative,” Chief Minister Khandu has stated, “embodies the profound impact and timeless wisdom of His Holiness on our lives and the world.” The saplings, now rooted in Urgelling’s sacred soil, are intended to grow as a testament to these values, the report said.
“May this special day,” the Chief Minister has urged, “inspire us all to embrace compassion, empathy, and kindness, fostering a more harmonious world.”
The celebrations featured a vibrant cultural event and a heartfelt Den-Tsik Monlam prayer ceremony conducted by the monks of Tawang Monastery, the report said.
On the same day, Deputy Chief Minister Mr Chowna Mein has attended the Dalai Lama’s 89th birthday celebrations at Lhagon Jangchup Choeling Monastery in the Dhargyeling Tibetan Settlement Camp in Tezu.
The Deputy Chief Minister warm birthday greetings on behalf of the entire State, noting that the whole world was celebrating this momentous occasion and called to embrace his teachings of compassion, peace and harmony, the report said.
He has highlighted the historical importance of Kenjamani and Lumla, nestled in the state’s Tawang district, where HH the current Dalai Lama took shelter while escaping from Tibet.
He has also expressed deep appreciation to the Tibetan communities for zealously preserving their rich cultures and traditions, emphasizing the importance of preserving and appreciating this heritage. He has assured support for the welfare of Tibetan community residing in the state in their demarcated Camps peacefully.
Former and current state government ministers and other local leaders were also stated to have attended the Dhargyeling settlement event.