Tenzin Nyidon
DHARAMSHALA, June 19: The exiled spiritual leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama on Thursday extended heartfelt birthday wishes to the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, on the occasion of her 67th birthday. In a letter addressed to the Indian head of state, the Nobel Laureate expressed his admiration and gratitude for India, which he has called home for more than six decades.
Reflecting on his personal journey, the Dalai Lama wrote, “As you know, after being forced to flee Tibet following the Tibetan people’s uprising against the PRC authorities in March 1959, I have spent the major part of my life in India. I therefore feel a special closeness to this country.”
He lauded India not only as the world’s most populous nation and the largest democracy but also as a rich source of ancient wisdom. “I believe that if this is combined with modern education it will make a beneficial contribution to greater peace and happiness in the world,” he noted.
The Tibetan leader reaffirmed his commitment to promoting India’s ancient understanding of the mind and emotions, a practice he believes can foster inner peace and compassion. “This, I believe, lays the basis for achieving peace of mind and developing a warm heart. It can also help us overcome such destructive emotions as anger, fear and hatred that undermine our ability to create a peaceful, more compassionate world,” he said.
Expressing deep appreciation for India’s enduring support of the Tibetan community in exile, His Holiness wrote, “As Tibetans, we are deeply indebted to the Government and people of India for the warm hospitality they have shown us for more than 66 years. We are also most grateful for the generous support we have received in our endeavours to protect and preserve our Buddhist culture that is founded on India’s age-old values of karuna (compassion) and ahimsa (non-violence).”
The Dalai Lama concluded his letter by wishing President Murmu happiness, good health, and continued success in leading the country.
