Tenzin Nyidon
DHARAMSHALA, Dec. 27: His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the revered Buddhist spiritual leader, has expressed condolences upon the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh, a former Prime Minister of India, who died on Thursday evening at the age of 92. In a letter addressed to Mrs. Gursharan Kaur, the widow of the late leader, the Tibetan spiritual leader paid tribute to Dr. Singh’s profound contributions to India’s development and his unwavering commitment to public service.
“I will remember him in my prayers and offer my condolences to you and your family at this sad time,” His Holiness wrote. “Your husband was motivated by a strong wish to help others. He made a significant contribution to India’s development and prosperity, especially its economic growth, improving the lot of the Indian people.”
Reflecting on their personal interactions over the years, the Dalai Lama expressed gratitude for Dr. Singh’s genuine warmth and insightful leadership. “Whenever we met over the years I deeply appreciated his concern and good counsel. I felt he was like an elder brother to me. He was also a good friend to the Tibetan people,” he noted.
In his message, the Dalai Lama extended his prayers for the bereaved family. “We can rejoice that for 92 years he lived a truly meaningful life—an inspiration to us all,” he wrote to Mrs. Kaur.
Dr. Manmohan Singh, who served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, was widely regarded as the architect of modern India’s economic transformation. His leadership during challenging times earned him respect across the political spectrum. His passing, many believe, marks the end of an era in Indian politics, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, intellect, and dedicated service to the nation.
Dr. Singh passed away at AIIMS, Delhi, due to age-related ailments. A state funeral is scheduled for Saturday. Before the cremation, his body will be kept for public darshan at the All India Congress Committee office in Delhi. The cremation will take place near Rajghat, at the designated site for the last rites of Prime Ministers.
