‘Just a simple Buddhist monk… will continue promoting harmony': Dalai Lama's birthday message as he turns 90
A day ahead of the occasion, the leader took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a birthday message with his followers, where he appealed to them to be compassionate towards everyone, and asserted that he will continue to focus on promoting human values and religious harmony.
He wrote: 'I am just a simple Buddhist monk; I don't normally engage in birthday celebrations. However, since you are organizing events focused on my birthday I wish to share some thoughts.'
In his birthday message on Saturday, the leader urged his followers to focus on achieving peace of mind, and make the world a better place. 'While it is important to work for material development, it is vital to focus on achieving peace of mind through cultivating a good heart and by being compassionate, not just toward near and dear ones, but toward everyone. Through this, you will contribute to making the world a better place,' he wrote over X.
Even though he does not normally engage in birthday celebrations, he appreciated the fact that many of his followers were using the occasion to 'engage in initiatives that highlight the importance of compassion, warm-heartedness, and altruism'.
90th Birthday Message
On the occasion of my 90th birthday, I understand that well-wishers and friends in many places, including Tibetan communities, are gathering for celebrations. I particularly appreciate the fact that many of you are using the occasion to engage in… pic.twitter.com/bfWjAZ18BO
— Dalai Lama (@DalaiLama) July 5, 2025
Highlighting his plans, Dalai Lama said, 'As for myself, I will continue to focus on my commitments of promoting human values, religious harmony, drawing attention to the ancient Indian wisdom which explains the workings of mind and emotions, and Tibetan culture and heritage, which has so much potential to contribute to the world through its emphasis on peace of mind and compassion.'
He said that he develops determination and courage in his daily life 'through the teachings of the Buddha and Indian masters such as Shantideva, whose following aspiration I strive to uphold.'
Quoting Shantideva, he wrote: 'As long as space endures, as long as sentient being remain, until then, may I too remain to dispel the miseries of the world.'
Celebrations are also underway within the Tibetan community in McLeodganj on Sunday with a religious conference, youth forum, film screening and prayers for the long life of the Tibetan spiritual leader, news agency PTI reported.
Earlier in the day, following a long life prayer ceremony at Tsuglagkhang, the central Dalai Lama temple in McLeodganj, the spiritual leader shared that he hopes to live for another 30 to 40 years to serve the people, PTI report stated.
The Dalai Lama's birth anniversary celebrations on Sunday will be attended by cabinet ministers Kiren Rijiju, a practising Buddhist, and Rajiv Ranjan Singh. Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, and Hollywood actor Richard Gere are slated to attend the ceremony, the report noted.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
18 minutes ago
- Time of India
From Gedun Drupa to Tenzin Gyatso: A look at all the 14 Dalai Lamas so far
As the 14th Dalai Lama marked his 90th birthday, the world reflects on the lineage of his predecessors. From Gedun Drupa, a scholar, to Thupten Gyatso, a moderniser, each Dalai Lama shaped Tibet's spiritual and political landscape. Their lives, marked by scholarship, leadership, and sometimes tragedy, form a sacred tradition. As the 14th Dalai Lama , Tenzin Gyatso, turned 90 on July 6, 2025, he became the longest-living Dalai Lama in Tibetan history. His extraordinary life has drawn attention and popularity not only for his teachings on compassion and peace but also for the ancient tradition he represents. Rooted in the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism , the Dalai Lama is believed to be the reincarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. Each Dalai Lama is identified as the spiritual successor of his predecessor, through a process of visions, prophecies, and ritual examinations of young children across Tibet and beyond. From nomadic beginnings, royal ties, monastic scholarship, to global advocacy, the 14 Dalai Lamas have helped shape Tibet's spiritual and political history over six centuries. Some served long, influential lives, while others passed away tragically young. Together, their stories have a sacred tradition that continues to guide Tibetan Buddhism today. And on this occasion of the 90th birthday of the current Dalai Lama, the world now waits to see how the 15th Dalai Lama will be chosen. It's the perfect time to look back at the lives of the 13 spiritual predecessors who paved the way for Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Urban Ascent by Emaar- 4 BHK Homes Starting at ₹ 5.25Cr* Emaar India Get Quote Undo Gedun Drupa Born in 1391 into a nomadic family in Tsang, Gedun Drupa was a bright monk who studied under Tsongkhapa, founder of the Gelugpa school. He established Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in 1447, which became a major centre for learning. He passed away peacefully in 1474 at 84, leaving behind a legacy of deep scholarship and devotion. Gedun Gyatso Born in 1475 near Shigatse, Gedun Gyatso showed signs of being the First Dalai Lama's reincarnation by age two, as he remembered his past life. Being recognised at 11, he revived the Great Prayer Festival and led both Drepung and Sera Monasteries. His dedication helped expand Gelugpa teachings. He died in 1542 at age 67, after a life of steady religious leadership. Sonam Gyatso Born in 1543 in Tolung, Sonam Gyatso was recognised at age three. He became abbot of major monasteries and founded the Dalai Lama's monastery, Namgyal. In 1578, Mongol ruler Altan Khan gave him the title 'Dalai Lama,' meaning 'Ocean of Wisdom.' He died in Mongolia in 1588, spreading Buddhism far beyond Tibet. Yonten Gyatso Born in 1589 in Mongolia, Yonten Gyatso was the grandson of Altan Khan. Though his journey to Tibet was delayed, he eventually studied in Lhasa and became abbot of major monasteries. His reign was short-lived, as he died in 1617 at just 27> He was the youngest Dalai Lama to serve during adulthood. Lobsang Gyatso Born in 1617, Lobsang Gyatso, the Fifth Dalai Lama, unified Tibet spiritually and politically with Mongol support. He began building the iconic Potala Palace and met the Qing Emperor in 1649. He was a skilled reformer and diplomat; his 1682 death was kept secret for 15 years to ensure national stability and finish the Potala's construction. Tsangyang Gyatso Born in 1683 in present-day Arunachal Pradesh, Tsangyang Gyatso preferred poetry and taverns over monastic life. He renounced his vows early but won the public's heart with his romantic verses. Although he was disliked by the ruling elite, he was taken to China in 1706, but died mysteriously on the way. His short life remains legendary. Kelsang Gyatso Kelsang Gyatso, born in 1708 in Lithang, was a wise and peaceful leader who brought calm to Tibet after years of unrest. Fully appointed in 1726, he preferred a spiritual life but still played a key role in governance by forming the Kashag in 1751. He died in 1757, remembered for his steady leadership and quiet strength. Jamphel Gyatso Born in 1758 in Lhari Gang, Jamphel Gyatso was enthroned at the Potala Palace and ordained young. He contributed to Tibetan architecture by building Norbulingka, the summer residence of the Dalai Lamas. A calm and studious leader, he died in 1804 at 47 and is remembered for strengthening spiritual practice in everyday life. Lungtok Gyatso Lungtok Gyatso was born in 1805 in Kham and was quickly identified as the reincarnation of the 8th Dalai Lama. Enthroned in 1810, he showed spiritual promise but tragically died in 1815 at just nine years old. Though his time was brief, many believed he had a special presence and deep wisdom beyond his years. His early death was a heartbreaking moment for Tibet, leaving a spiritual void and delaying the continuity of leadership. Tsultrim Gyatso Tsultrim Gyatso was born in 1816 and became the Tenth Dalai Lama at age six. He was fully ordained in 1835. Despite his young age, he took his role seriously and worked to restore the Potala Palace, preserving an important part of Tibet's cultural and spiritual heritage. He passed away in 1837 at only 21 years old. Though his years were few, his commitment to preserving tradition and upholding the responsibilities of his role left a quiet but meaningful legacy in Tibetan history. Khedrup Gyatso Khedrup Gyatso was born in 1838 and recognised shortly after. Ordained young, he assumed leadership in uncertain times. While his role was largely symbolic, he carried the spiritual lineage forward. He passed away in 1856 at the age of 18, one of several Dalai Lamas to die tragically young. Trinley Gyatso Born in 1856, Trinley Gyatso was brought to Lhasa in 1858, and began official duties in 1873. Though he worked to strengthen the Tibetan government, he died suddenly in 1875 at just 20. His short life included a century of political instability and challenges to the Dalai Lama's temporal role. Thupten Gyatso Thupten Gyatso, born in 1876, was a powerful force for change. He attained the title in 1895. He resisted foreign interference and modernised Tibet's military, schools, and health system. Exiled in India, he embraced modern ideas while also preserving Tibet's spiritual heart. He died in 1933 and is considered a visionary who paved the way for his successor.
Hindustan Times
an hour ago
- Hindustan Times
Around 208 kg of gold ornaments to be used in Lord Jagannath's 'Suna Besha' on chariots
Puri, Lord Jagannath and his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra will be adorned with 208 kg gold ornaments during the 'Suna Besha' ritual on chariots, an integral part of the annual Rath Yatra festival in Puri. According to temple sources, the deities adorn around 30 different designs of ornaments which include gold, diamond, silver and other precious metals.(PTI) The 'Suna Besha' ritual of the deities will be held on Sunday and the devotes can witness the ritual from 6.30 pm to 11 pm, said the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration . According to temple sources, the deities adorn around 30 different designs of ornaments which include gold, diamond, silver and other precious metals. "Initially, around 138 designs of ornaments were used during the era of King Kapilendra Deb in 1460. Around 208 kg of gold ornaments are used in the ritual even today. But, they are not purely gold. The ornaments are made in mixture of gold, silver, precious stones like diamonds and other metals. There has been no separate estimation on gold weight alone in ornaments," said Bhaskar Mishra, an author and a researcher in Shree Jagannath Culture. He said the records were available on the use of gold ornaments in Suna Bhesa during East India Company rule in Odisha, but there is no mention of the weight of gold used in the ritual. The priests associated with the Lord's Suna Besha claimed that the ornament designs used during King Kapilendra Deb, are also in use today. However, they are repaired sometimes by using the gold donated by pilgrims. "The gold ornaments are refurbished every year ahead of the Suna Besha on chariots during Rath Yatra," said Mishra, adding that there is demands to remake certain ornaments as the Lord's treasury has received around 50 kg of gold from devotees over the years. Stating that the Suna Besha on chariots is also called 'Bada Tadhau Besha' in temple terminology, Prof Surendranath Dash said that the Puri deities adorn golden attire five times a year. However, the 'Bada Tadhau Besha' is popular because it is held on chariots and devotees in large numbers get the opportunity to see it. He said this Suna Besha is held on Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi Tithi on the 11th bright fortnight in Asadha. Four other Suna Besha are held inside the temple on the occasion of Vijaya Dasami , Kartika Purnima, Dola Purnima and Pousa Purnima as per Odia almanac. According to Shree Jagannath culture researcher Asit Mohanty, the 'Suna Besha' ritual began in the Puri temple during the reign of King Kapilendra Deb in 1460 when the ruler brought 16 cartloads of gold ornaments to Odisha after winning wars over the rulers in southern India. The king donated the gold and diamond to Lord Jagannath and instructed the temple priests to prepare ornaments for the 'Suna Besha' of the trinity, Mohanty said, adding that the deities are decorated with various types of gold ornaments like gold diadems, locally called 'Kiriti', hands and feet made of gold. Lord Jagannath holds a gold Chakra in his right hand and a silver conch in his left hand. Lord Balabhadra wields a golden plough in his left hand, and a gold mace in his right hand. Goddess Subhadra also wears different ornaments, Mohanty said. The specific servitors known as Palia Puspalak, Bhitarchha Mohapatra, Talichha Mohapatra, Daitapatis, Khuntia and Mekap Sevaks decorate the deities with golden attire. Lakhs of devotees irrespective of caste, creed and religion have a chance for darshan of the Suna Besha on the chariots during evening hours of the Ekadashi, Mohanty said. As Lord Jagannath's 'Ratna Bhadar' was being repaired by the ASI now, the gold ornaments are currently stored in the temporary strong room after valuables were shifted from the outer chamber of the sacred treasury. Escorted by armed policemen and temple officials, 'Bhandara Mekap' servitor bring the gold jewellery laced with invaluable stones and hand it over to Puspalaka and Daitapati servitors for decoration of the deities. Apart from having a good volume of gold, the Puri temple also owns a vast amount of landed property. In Odisha, the temple's land holdings are estimated to be around 60,426 acres across 24 districts. Besides, the temple possesses land in other states, including West Bengal, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Bihar, totalling approximately 395 acres, sources in the Law department said.
India Today
an hour ago
- India Today
Are you cleaning right at home? A closer look at everyday hygiene
It's no secret that Indian households take cleaning seriously. Whether it's the daily mop before breakfast or the weekend deep scrub, cleaning rituals are part of everyday life in most homes. But what if all that effort isn't delivering the hygiene we expect?To understand how modern Indian homes clean—and where things might be going wrong—India Today spoke with Tim Hare, Dyson Engineer, as the company released its Global Wet Cleaning Study 2025. The report reveals surprising insights: from how often Indians clean to the hidden hygiene risks of traditional methods like reusing mop water or relying solely on being one of the most cleanliness-conscious nations, India's preferred cleaning habits may be spreading more germs than removing them. The question is no longer how much we clean, but how METHODS MAY BE WORKING AGAINST US Despite this dedication, the tools commonly used—mops, buckets, and clothes—might not deliver truly clean results. Many Indians reuse the same bucket of water for multiple rooms, with 49% admitting they don't change the water after each room, potentially spreading dirt and bacteria instead of removing it."Frequency doesn't guarantee hygiene," says Tim Hare. 'Traditional methods, when used with dirty water or inefficient tools, can reintroduce dirt onto surfaces.'CLEANING TAKES TIME—AND EFFORTThe study found that nearly 1 in 3 households in India spend more than 2 hours on routine floor cleaning, with about 35 minutes of that time devoted solely to wet common frustrations include:Slippery floors after moppingStruggles with edge or corner cleaningPhysical discomfort due to bending or repetitive motionDifficulty removing stubborn stainsInterestingly, only about a third of Indian respondents believe that clothes or sponges are effective for cleaning hard AWARENESS ABOUT MODERN SOLUTIONSDespite the popularity of traditional tools, India ranks lowest in APAC for awareness of modern wet cleaning devices. This indicates a gap in access or information around tools that could ease the process and improve said, many Indian households know what they want from an ideal wet cleaner:Easy maintenanceDurable build qualityEfficient emptying and refillingEffective stain and debris removalThese priorities reflect a need for better design suited to the specific challenges of Indian homes—particularly the dust-heavy, spill-prone PEOPLE NEED FROM FUTURE CLEANING TOOLSThe report highlights how current methods often require double the work—sweeping before mopping, and sometimes repeating the process due to unsatisfactory results. This routine can be especially tiring for busy urban families with limited missing is an easy, efficient, and hygienic solution that:Cleans thoroughly in one goDries floors quickly to prevent slipsReaches corners and under furnitureMinimises manual effort and physical strainREIMAGINING THE FUTURE OF FLOOR CLEANINGadvertisementAs Tim Hare points out, the future of home hygiene lies not just in cleaning more—but in cleaning smarter.'Cleaning habits must evolve with living spaces. People deserve tools that save time, reduce effort, and improve hygiene,' he explains. 'Modern technology can separate debris from water, reduce passes needed to clean, and help floors dry faster—offering a cleaner home and more time for what matters.'The study reinforces a vital takeaway: cleaning frequency isn't enough. Effective cleaning with dyson washG1 depends on method, tools, and hygiene awareness. While Indian households are among the most diligent in their cleaning routines, the findings suggest a need for safer, more efficient, and time-saving solutions that address the unique challenges of Indian better awareness and access to thoughtful cleaning tools, everyday routines can be transformed—from tiring chores to healthier habits.- Ends
