Dharamsala , June 19, 2025
His Holiness the Dalai Lama today extended warm birthday wishes to the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, on the occasion of her 67th birthday. In a personal letter sent this morning, the Tibetan spiritual leader expressed his deep admiration for India and heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the Tibetan people.
Recalling his long association with the country, the Dalai Lama wrote, тАЬAfter being forced to flee Tibet following the Tibetan people’s uprising against the PRC authorities in March 1959, I have spent the major part of my life in India. I therefore feel a special closeness to this country.тАЭ
The spiritual leader hailed India not only as the worldтАЩs most populous nation and the largest democracy but also as a land rich in ancient wisdom. тАЬIf this ancient knowledge is combined with modern education,тАЭ he said, тАЬIndia can make a significant contribution to global peace and happiness.тАЭ
Highlighting his personal mission, he added, тАЬI am committed to promoting a deeper awareness of IndiaтАЩs profound understanding of the workings of our mind and emotions. This knowledge is key to cultivating peace of mind and a compassionate heart, and to overcoming negative emotions such as anger, fear, and hatred.тАЭ
Expressing the Tibetan people’s enduring appreciation, the Dalai Lama stated, тАЬWe are deeply indebted to the Government and people of India for the warm hospitality extended to us for more than 66 years. We are also immensely grateful for the generous support in our efforts to preserve our Buddhist culture, rooted in IndiaтАЩs timeless values of karuna (compassion) and ahimsa (non-violence).тАЭ
Concluding his letter, His Holiness wished President Murmu good health, happiness, and continued success in leading the nation.