Tenzin NyidonÂ
DHARAMSHALA, June 8: The globally revered Tibetan leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama successfully underwent left knee surgery at Apollo Hospital in New Delhi on Monday, according to his personal physician, Dr. Tsetan Dorjee Sadutshang.
In a video message posted on the official YouTube channel of the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Dr. Tsetan confirmed that the procedure was “very successful” and said the nonagenarian leader is currently recovering in his hospital room. The specific nature of the procedure, however, was not disclosed.
“We are very happy to inform everyone that His Holiness’s surgery was very successful,” Dr. Tsetan said, expressing gratitude to the medical team and staff at Apollo Hospital for their care and support throughout the procedure.
The Tibetan leader, who will turn 91 on July 6, departed Dharamshala for New Delhi on June 5 for medical treatment related to his left knee. The Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama had announced the planned treatment last week, noting that he would travel to Ladakh toward the end of June.
The operation follows a successful right knee replacement surgery performed in June 2025 at the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in New York, one of the world’s leading orthopaedic medical centres. Following that procedure, His Holiness spent time recovering in Syracuse, New York, where he underwent extensive physical therapy before returning to Dharamshala.
Despite ongoing knee-related mobility challenges in recent years, the Tibetan spiritual leader has maintained an active public schedule. He has continued to preside over religious teachings, public audiences, and official engagements, occasionally relying on aides and a golf cart to navigate longer distances between his residence and the Tsuglagkhang, the Main Tibetan Temple, during large public events.
Following his recovery from the latest surgery, His Holiness is expected to travel to Ladakh later this month for his annual summer stay. The Nobel Laureate traditionally spends several weeks in the Himalayan region during the summer, avoiding Dharamshala’s monsoon season while continuing his teachings and public engagements.
His 91st birthday celebrations, scheduled for July 6, are expected to take place during his stay in Ladakh.
