‘Far from promoting weakness or passivity, compassion requires great fortitude and strength of character.”
His Holiness The 14th Dalai Lama
Celebrating His Holiness the Dalai Lama's Legacy
Bhim Auditorium, Dr. Ambedkar International Centre
It began with a serene Long Life Prayer chanted by Tibetan monks, setting the tone for a heartfelt celebration. Dignitaries were welcomed on stage and honoured with khatas and plaques by Tibet House Director, Dorji Damdul la. A wave of cheers erupted as students recognized the familiar face of Minoti Didi, the founder of their school.
A student from Tibet House read a personal message from the Dalai Lama, who shared that though His Holiness does not believe in celebrating his birthday, he expressed his gratitude sending a message of compassion amid global turmoil.
A video montage followed, highlighting the Dalai Lama’s thoughts on compassion, environmental preservation, the importance of women in leadership, and his deep interest in science.
A big takeaway was also the screening of “The Wisdom of Happiness”. The children greatly enjoyed watching the documentary, amused at the Dalai Lama’s little jokes. Some students also shared that they felt unhappy and uncomfortable at the violence and scenes of warfare captured in the film.
Children from Shikshantar School brought joyful energy to the auditorium, especially during a dynamic performance featuring dancers from Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA), McLeodganj portraying Snow Lions in a traditional Sangay Cham dance. Later, the students explored an exhibit on the Dalai Lama’s life and philosophy in the atrium.
Speeches by the chief guest, former Tibetan and Indian government officials, and documentarian Manuel Bauer reflected on personal encounters with the Dalai Lama. Stories ranged from profound insights to humorous moments- like Bauer recounting the Dalai Lama’s playful spirit even during a bomb threat.
Minoti Didi also shared a touching memory- “He saw the souls of everyone- from us to the serving staff to the driver.”
The children later recalled the experience in the Circle Time - “the key to happiness is meditation and calming our energies”, “It was about learning and teaching the art of forgiveness”.
Dorji Damdul la concluded with a meditative prayer and emphasized the importance of the younger generation, reminding all present that they hold the future in their hands and the children later at school shared that they enjoyed exploring Tibetan culture.