Prayers held at Holy Tree in Arunachal's Kinzamani to mark Dalai Lama's 90th b'day
The Dalai Lama had escaped from Tibet in 1959.
He had rested at Kinzamani, where the Holy Tree grew from his walking stick that he left on a stone. He arrived in India on March 31, 1959, with a wooden stick, which he used as a walking staff while entering India through Zemithang and was received by the Indian security forces at Survashamba, 2 km from Kinzamani.
"Prayer for his long life was organised beneath the Gurusheng tree by the lamas of Zemithang, along with other guests and dignitaries, including the public of Zemithang Circle," said Lama Kalzang Lhundrub, secretary of Gorzam Stupa Culture Centre.
"The Dalai Lama had placed the walking stick on a stone and left it there. Local Monpas later recognised it as a branch of the Gurusheng tree. The tree now bears fruit and is fully grown. It has already become a major centre of attraction," he added.
Last year, 18,000 tourists visited this tree. "This tree is the biggest attraction in Zemithang and a landmark of spiritual tourism. People believe that praying under the tree fulfils their wishes," said Deewan Mara, circle officer, Zemithang.
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After the prayers at Kinzamani, the main celebration began before a photo of His Holiness placed at Gorzam Stupa, where the Dalai Lama stayed the second night on April 1, 1959, after entering India. He also issued a sermon there.
An event by students from different schools in Zemithang and a plantation drive at Kinzamani were also organised.
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