………………..By Arvind Sharma
Sr. Journalist
In a heartfelt gathering full of hope and spirituality, the 14th Dalai Lama, the esteemed Tibetan spiritual leader, was honored with a Long Life Prayer ceremony organized by the Toepa Association and the Purang community in Dharamsala on April 3, 2024 . At 88 years of age, the Dalai Lama warmly embraced the prayers offered to him, expressing his determination to live beyond the age of 100, a testament to his unwavering commitment to promoting the values of compassion and harmony as espoused by Buddhist culture.
The ceremony, which took place in the serene ambience of the Main Tibetan Temple in McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala, drew a large and diverse crowd. Devotees, including Tibetan monks, nuns, and international followers, converged in Dharamsala to extend their heartfelt prayers for the long life of their beloved spiritual guide.
Dolma Tsering, the deputy speaker of the Tibetan parliament-in-exile, reflected on the significance of the event, stating, “This Long Life Prayer offering by the Toepa and Purang Association is a profound expression of our collective wish for His Holiness to continue guiding humanity with his teachings of compassion and harmony for many years to come.”
The ceremony began with a reverent recitation of praises to the Buddha, setting a tone of reverence and gratitude. Attendees formed a procession in the temple’s courtyard, each bearing offerings as symbols of their devotion and prayers for the Dalai Lama’s health and longevity.
The Dalai Lama’s affirmation of living for more than 100 years not only fills his followers with joy and hope but also reinforces his role as a beacon of peace and spiritual leadership in a world in need of his message of love and understanding.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama addressed the congregation during the Long Life Prayer and said “This long-life ceremony offered with sincere hearts has been successful from beginning to end. I pray and am determined to live for more than 100 years.
“This is a time when the Buddhadharma is in decline and yet there have been many causes and conditions for me to be able to serve the teaching of the Buddha. Today, in places where the Dharma had not previously spread people are taking interest in what the Buddha had to say about the workings of the mind and emotions, scientists particularly among them.
“Whether they are religious or not there are growing numbers of people who appreciate that we can bring peace to the world by first achieving peace within. In this context this is my prayer that Wherever the Buddha’s teaching has not spread And wherever it has spread but has declined May I, moved by great compassion, clearly elucidate this treasury of excellent benefit and happiness for all.”
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