The 81st birthday of Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama was celebrated with artists and school children presenting cultural shows at the main Tibetan temple Tsuglagkhang in Mcleodganj here.
A large gathering of Tibetans, foreignersand Indians were present at the temple to mark his birthday.
"Every Tibetan should not only pay heed to His Holiness' precious advice but also channel it into action. Now that the dust has settled, let us take a moment to look forward to our future with a renewed sense of conviction, purpose and action," Home Minister (Kalon) Sonam Topgyal Khorlatsang said.
Both the Kashag (cabinet) and the Tibetan Parliament in exile in their statement extended their gratitude to India and its people for their hospitality and support towards the Tibetan people.
"His Holiness chose this place since it is the Dev Bhumi. Therefore, we should all work together to make it a global center of religious meetings and conferences. I urge Tibetans to preserve the unique culture and traditions," Ajay Singh Mankotia, President of Indo-Tibetan Friendship Association said.
A Hindi version of the comic book 'Dalai Lama: Soldier of Peace' by Vijay Kranti and a book (in Chinese) on the life of former political prisoner Lobsang Tenzin was also launched at the event.
The Dalai Lama, who is currently in Mundgod, celebrated his birthday at the Drepung Monastery today. He is scheduled to give a teaching on July 13 in Rewalsar (Tso Pema).
He was born in Taktser in China on July 6, 1935 and is the 14th Dalai Lama.
