Richard Gere Arrives in Dharamshala for Dalai Lama’s 90th Birthday: ‘Always a Delight Being Here’

Hollywood actor Richard Gere was part of the celebrations in Dharamshala and neighbouring areas in Kangra region of Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday before 14 th Dalai Lama marks his 90 th birthday.

Although Dalai Lama was born on July 6 under the Gregorian calendar, celebrations started on first of June under the Tibetan calendar. The spiritual leaders, the dignitaries, and well-wishers have started flowing into the event because they have come to various parts of the world.

Gere, one of the recognized leaders, has flocked to Dharamshala to mark the event which is being attended by world leaders in spiritual, dignitaries and well wishers.

Also Read: Al-Hilal Shocks the World as Manchester City’s Trophyless Streak Continues

Speaking to ANI during the event at Nechung Monastery, Gere remarked, "We're here in Dharamshala to celebrate His Holiness's 90th birthday, his good health, his strength and compassion. Nechung is one of my oldest friends... this monastery is very important to me and my son. He's been to my home in the US. He's also very close to my son, and it's always a delight being here. I've seen the pleasure of being here many times, so I feel like I have a connection with Nechung now. It's always a delight being here," Gere said.

During an important ceremony that was performed at the Nechung Monastery, one of the protector Gods to the Tibetan community, the Nechung Oracle went into a trance state in a move that was meant to bless the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and the leaders. The event was attended by CTA President Penpa Tsering, ministers and Tibetan parliamentarians and thousands of Tibetan devotees.

Tsering explained the relevance of the ceremony, "This is the invocation of the Nechung Oracle. Nechung, along with Palden Lhamo, is an official protective deity of the Tibetan administration. We seek guidance from the oracle during periods of difficulty and uncertainty."

During the June 30 celebration in the main Tibetan temple in Dharamshala, the Dalai Lama briefly appeared in public and once again gave pledge to peace and compassion and serving the people of Tibet and the larger global community.

The festivities has attracted a number of interfaith leaders and this shows the impact of Dalai Lama outside Buddhism.

Swami Chidanand Saraswati of Parmarth Niketan Ashram said, "Dalai Lama ji is a blessing to the world. His message is clear: peace over conflict. We are here to celebrate his 90 years of love and healing."

Also Read: Cardiologist Reveals Dangerous Eating Habits That Raise Heart Attack Risk: ‘Eat More Fibre’

Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati pointed to the example of Dalai Lama who remained compassionate despite an adversity."He has taught us that even amidst hurt, one can still choose love, forgiveness, and truth."

Jain Acharya Lokesh Muni quoted the message of non-violence and dialogue, "Religion is meant to connect, not divide. On this occasion, we reiterate that war solves nothing, dialogue and understanding are the paths forward."

The three day international Buddhist conference to involve senior monks and scholars of different traditions in the world, will be conducted at Dharamshala, India, between 2 and 4 July.

The event will be completed by a large speech by the Dalai Lama, whom it is expected to address the future of the Tibetan reincarnation tradition in the Tibetan and worldwide Buddhist communities.

In addition, July 13 IBC will organize a special commemorative event in New Delhi.

Also Read: 20 Die of Heart Attacks in Karnataka’s Hassan in 1 Month; CM Siddaramaiah Raises Possible COVID‑Vaccine Link