To commemorate the 75th anniversary of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s assumption of spiritual and temporal leadership of Tibet, the Central Ghoton Organising Committee of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) held a grand celebration at the Tsuglagkhang, the main Tibetan temple in Dharamshala, on Monday. The event was marked by profound expressions of gratitude to His Holiness for his extraordinary leadership and lifelong service to the Tibetan people.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama graced the ceremony, which was attended by Czech Ambassador to India Dr. Eliska Zigova, and Yashbir Singh, IFS, Liaison Officer of the Ministry of External Affairs. Former Liaison Officers and DSPs who have served His Holiness in Dharamshala were also present.
The ceremony began with a symbolic Mandala offering by Tibetan Chief Justice Commissioner Yeshi Wangmo, Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, and Sikyong Penpa Tsering, representing the sacred body, speech, and mind of the Buddha. A second Mandala offering was made by former Tibetan Parliamentarian Tashi Namgyal, President of the Gratitude Event Organising Committee, on behalf of alumni of Tibetan schools in India and Nepal. Representatives from CSTs, TCV, THF, and various Tibetan day schools also joined the tribute.
After the offerings, Sikyong Penpa Tsering and Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel presented the statements of the Kashag and the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile. The statements highlighted His Holiness’ visionary leadership from the age of 16, including his efforts to seek peaceful resolutions during the early years of the Tibet–China conflict, the introduction of the Middle Way Approach, and his democratic reforms that reshaped the Tibetan political system in exile.
The President of the Organising Committee recalled His Holiness’s early efforts to ensure education for young Tibetan refugees, leading to the establishment of schools in India and Nepal with the support of the Indian government. These institutions, he said, have achieved near-universal literacy among Tibetans in exile and have produced professionals serving communities worldwide.
Delivering the keynote address, Ambassador Dr. Eliska Zigova reflected on His Holiness’ extraordinary leadership: “Imagine the young Dalai Lama, just 16, taking responsibility for his nation under such difficult circumstances. At 23, in exile, he began founding schools and homes for children. Today, we see the results—educated, confident, and culturally grounded Tibetan youth. It is truly remarkable.”
Sharing her experience from a recent visit to Tibetan Homes Foundation in Mussoorie, she noted that the children were not only well-educated but also deeply connected to their Tibetan heritage. She concluded with prayers for His Holiness’s long life and conveyed her warm wishes to the Tibetan community.
During the ceremony, alumni presented a plaque to the people and Government of India, expressing gratitude for India’s unwavering support to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan people since 1959. Liaison Officer Yashbir Singh received the plaque on behalf of the Government, in the presence of His Holiness.
A book authored by Lobsang Jinpa, Secretary at the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and published by the Department of Information and International Relations, was also launched on the occasion.
After His Holiness departed for his residence, students from various Tibetan schools staged colourful cultural performances, bringing the commemoration to a vibrant and festive close.
photo courtesy Tibetan government
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