By Phurbu Thinley
Phayul Correspondent
Dharamsala: 9 April: A two-day grand long-life ceremonial Puja (religious prayer) for His Holiness the Dalai Lama by the local Indian communities in and around Dharamsala will be held here on April 15 and 16.
The special long-life prayer session in traditional Hindu form will be held at the main temple court yard starting from morning 10 AM on the 15th. Priests from Haridwar lead by a very high priest will conduct the puja.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama will grace the prayer ceremony with a brief presence on the 16th.
The Long-Life Puja is being jointly orgnised by Indo-Tibet Friendship Society (ITFS), Bharat Tibet Sahyog Manch, Taxi Union of McLeod Ganj, Bagsu and Dharamsala, McLeod Auto Union, McLeod Ganj Beopar Mandal, Gorkha Association and local Pradhans of Village Panchayats of surrounding areas of Dharamsala. The joint puja is also supported by various other local organisations totaling around 50 big and small associations.
“It is a long life prayer offering from the Indian people in and around Dharamsala,” Mr. Ram Swaroop, former President and current advisor to ISFT told Phayul.com here today.
“According to Tibetans, His Holiness turned 73 this Losar (Tibetan New Year), and Tibetans believe that it’s an obstacle period in one’s life,” said Mr. Ram. “So, we join hands with Tibetan people to pray for His Holiness’s long life from our side,” said Mr. Ram.
Tibetans around the globe have been holding occasional prayer gatherings and religious ceremonies for His Holiness’ long life and continued well-being.
“We deeply honour His Holiness the Dalai Lama and are blessed by His Holiness’ holy presence here in Dharamsala,” says Mr. Ram Swaroop “And we are obliged to hold this special puja for His Holiness’ long life,” he adds.
“There will be people from different areas of Dharamsala and we will be pleased if Tibetans too join us in number for the two days’ puja,” notes Mr. Ram.
According to Mr. Ram, a joint organising committee has been formed for the event and a retired High Court Judge of Himachal Pradesh state has been in the town to oversee the work.
Dharamsala Taxi Union will arrange community lunch during the puja.
