Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm birthday wishes to the Dalai Lama, praising his message of peace and harmony that has inspired people worldwide. The Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, born on July 6, 1935, in Tibet, is recognized as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama. He is revered in Tibetan Buddhism as an incarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion.
The Dalai Lama began his monastic education at the age of six, focusing on Buddhist philosophy, logic, Sanskrit grammar, medicine, and fine arts. In 1959, he obtained the prestigious Geshe Lharampa degree in Tibetan Buddhist philosophy. Following China’s military presence in Tibet, the Dalai Lama assumed full political authority and later sought refuge in India after the Tibetan uprising was suppressed.
In 2011, the Dalai Lama relinquished his political responsibilities, transitioning to a purely spiritual role. The Tibetan government-in-exile, based in Dharamsala, continues to advocate for Tibet on the international stage. The UN General Assembly has addressed the Tibet issue through resolutions in various years, reflecting global concern for the region’s situation.
