Tibetan spiritual leader and world-renowned religious figure, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, turned 90 years old on Sunday, 6 July 2025.
Following the inauguration ceremony in the morning, the Central Tibetan Administration hosted the official 90th birthday celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the courtyard of Thekchen Choeling Tsuglakhang, attended by a large gathering.
Dalai Lama Posted 90th Birthday Message on his Social media handle:
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 initiatives that highlight the importance of compassion, warm-heartedness, and altruism.
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.
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.
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.
I develop determination and courage in my daily life through the teachings of the Buddha and Indian masters such as Shantideva, whose following aspiration I strive to uphold.
As long as space endures,
As long as sentient being remain,
Until then, may I too remain
To dispel the miseries of the world.
Thank you for using the opportunity of my birthday to cultivate peace of mind and compassion.
Tashi Deleg and with prayers,
Dalai Lama
Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi extended his greetings to His Holiness the Dalai Lama on his 90th birthday.
Sikkim’s Chief Minister Shri PS Golay took to his Facebook page to convey his warmest greetings to His Holiness. CM Golay posted:
With profound reverence and humility, I, on behalf of the people of Sikkim, extend my warmest greetings and heartfelt wishes to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama on the sacred occasion of His Holiness’ 90th birth anniversary.
A beacon of peace, compassion, and spiritual wisdom, His Holiness’ gentle strength, humility, and unwavering commitment to the path of compassion have touched countless lives across the globe, transcending boundaries of religion, nationality, and culture. Through His Holiness’ teachings and example, the seeds of kindness have been sown and the spirit of humanity awakened in millions. We remain deeply inspired by His Holiness’ dedication to promoting a universal message of love and understanding, a true religion of human kindness.
On this auspicious day, I offer my sincerest prayers for His Holiness’ long life, good health, and continued spiritual guidance. May the light of His Holiness’ wisdom always illuminate our path, and may His enduring presence continue to bless the world with peace, compassion, and hope for generations to come.
As part of the global celebration of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday, Twitter users from around the world have poured in their wishes since this morning.
Likewise, Chief Ministers of other Indian states, state ministers, and ambassadors also took to their official Facebook and Twitter accounts to shower heartfelt greetings on His Holiness.
As always on July 6th, Tibetans inside Tibet, despite the draconian surveillance and restrictions on every aspect of their lives, commemorate His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s birthday through symbolic and creative gestures.
His Holiness, born as Tenzin Gyatso on 6 July 1935 to a farming family in a small hamlet in Taktser, Amdo, northeastern Tibet, is the spiritual leader of Tibet.
At the age of two, the child — then named Lhamo Dhondup — was recognized as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama, Thubten Gyatso. The Dalai Lamas are believed to be manifestations of Avalokiteshvara or Chenrezig, the Bodhisattva of Compassion and the patron saint of Tibet. Bodhisattvas are enlightened beings who have postponed their own nirvana in order to be reborn and serve humanity.
His Holiness is currently residing in Dharamshala, India.
