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Event Kicks Off Celebration Of Dalai Lama’s 90th Birthday

The Dalai Lama said there would be a “structured framework” for his succession and reflected on a “profoundly purposeful and deeply fulfilling” life as spiritual and administrative leaders gathered on Monday to begin celebrations for his 90th birthday. “Throughout my life, I have worked for the welfare of the Tibetan people, preservation of the Dharma, and for the happiness of all,” he said. “I believe this human life of mine has served the whole of mankind and I remain committed to dedicating the rest of it, too, for the well-being of all.” The event took place on a fog-veiled monsoon morning in the courtyard of the Main Temple in Dharamsala, decorated with sacred traditional thangkas, or paintings, fresh garland offerings and derkha, or special offerings on the Tibetan New Year. Around 8,000 people attended the event at the temple and in overflow locations, organizers told RFA. Guests included spiritual leaders from the major Tibetan Buddhist sects and representatives of other Buddhist and religious traditions, plus the leaders of the Central Tibetan Administration, administrative staff and members of monastic communities. Organizers presented the Dalai Lama with an award, The Peerless Teacher of the 21st Century, lauding his service. They also performed a ceremonial long-life offering, wishing the spiritual leader continued good health. The event was the first in a series of ceremonies marking the Dalai Lama’s birthday, which is Sunday. A high-level meeting of spiritual heads from the major Buddhist sects will take place from Wednesday through Friday, followed by ceremonial events and celebrations that will kick off a “Year of Compassion” event series, with programs scheduled across the globe. An announcement is expected on the Dalai Lama’s succession, potentially stemming from the meetings this week. He made a brief reference to succession plans during today’s birthday event, saying “there will be a structured framework for the future continuation of the Dalai Lamas’ institution in times to come,” but offering no further details.