Tenzin Nyidon
DHARAMSHALA, March 26: A ceremony marking the exile Tibetan spiritual leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s upcoming 90th birthday was held at the Minnesota State Capitol on Sunday. The event, jointly organized by the Office of Tibet in Washington DC, the U.S. Chotrul Monlam Association, and the Tibetan American Foundation of Minnesota, honored the spiritual leader’s lifelong dedication to Tibet, the Tibetan people, and his humanitarian contributions worldwide.
The celebration was attended by His Eminence Kyabje Jangtse Choje Gosok Rinpoche, members of the Minnesota State Legislature, local government officials, Dr. Namgyal Choedup, Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the Office of Tibet, Washington DC, Secretary Lobsang Jinpa from the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, H.E. Kyabje Sharma Choeje Rinpoche, Ganden Throneholder’s secretary Lobsang Gyaltsen Rinpoche, as well as members of the Tibetan-American community and local residents.
During the event, North American Representative Dr. Namgyal Choedup highlighted the strong ties between the United States and Tibet. He reflected on the Dalai Lama’s decades-long commitment to promoting peace, non-violence, and compassion in a world increasingly marred by conflict and man-made disasters.
The event’s chief guest, H.E. Kyabje Jangtse Choje Gosok Rinpoche, emphasized the deep significance of the celebration. He recalled the Dalai Lama’s six decades of teachings on environmental conservation, human well-being, and interfaith harmony. He urged that these teachings be translated into meaningful actions to create a lasting impact.
As part of the commemoration, over 15 elected leaders and local dignitaries from Minnesota were presented with copies of the Dalai Lama’s latest book, Voice for the Voiceless, along with a special commemorative coin. A photographic exhibition showcasing the Dalai Lama’s life and achievements was also featured.
As per the modern calendar, the Nobel Laureate will turn 90 on 6 July 2025. In honor of this milestone, the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) has designated the upcoming year as the ‘Year of Compassion.’ CTA President Penpa Tsering announced that a series of global events will be organized to celebrate the occasion, emphasizing the Dalai Lama’s four principal commitments.
According to the CTA, the Cabinet will hold four official events throughout the year, each highlighting one of the Dalai Lama’s lifelong commitments. A dedicated organizing committee, led by the Cabinet Secretary and comprising civil servants from the three pillars of Tibetan democracy, will oversee the coordination of these activities. Additionally, the Department of Information and International Relations (DIIR) will ensure that Offices of Tibet worldwide establish committees to organize national and institutional events. A dedicated online portal will be launched, offering access to films, documentaries, and other materials while allowing organizers to share event details.
