Tenzin Nyidon
DHARAMSHALA, June 26: Marking the 40th birthday of prominent Buddhist leader His Holiness the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, the exile seat at Rumtek Monastery in Sikkim hosted a celebratory event on Thursday. The occasion was graced by several dignitaries, including the Chief Minister of Sikkim, Shri Prem Singh Tamang-Golay, and Kyabje Zurmang Gharwang Rinpoche.
In a virtual address, the Karmapa reflected on the deep historical ties between the Karmapa lineage and the state of Sikkim. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Sikkim government and local authorities for their continued support of Buddhism and efforts to preserve the region’s monastic heritage.
Addressing the broader Tibetan community, the Karmapa called for unity and a renewed sense of responsibility for the Tibetan cause. As the foremost Buddhist leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama nears his 90th birthday, the Karmapa reminded Tibetans of the need to carry forward the vision and legacy of the Dalai Lama with strength and determination.
“His Holiness the Dalai Lama is soon to reach the age of 90 according to the Western calendar. While we should rejoice in his long and stable life, we must also recognize that he cannot continue his work indefinitely. This is a time for every Tibetan to take on greater responsibility with enthusiasm and courage, keeping in mind the long-term vision,” he said.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay, sharing his thoughts on Facebook, described the celebration as a deeply spiritual and personally meaningful experience. “On behalf of the people of Sikkim, we offered prayers for the continued good health, long life, and enlightened activities of His Holiness, whose compassion and wisdom continue to inspire millions around the world,” he wrote.
He also expressed his honour in participating in the sacred Sang Puja, presided over virtually by the Karmapa. “Participating in this spiritual gathering, even online, was a deeply moving experience and a moment of reflection and collective prayer. May His Holiness continue to illuminate the path of Dharma and guide sentient beings with his boundless compassion and wisdom for many years to come,” the Chief Minister added.
Observers say that the Karmapa is seen as a key Tibetan Buddhist leader in exile and that India is trying to gain grounds in securing extended benefits of his influence and clout in the Buddhist community worldwide in the near future. However, the Karmapa who now possesses a foreign passport may only be willing to visit India on a visa permit and unrestricted movement worldwide. His followers including the incumbent Sikkim CM Pre Singh Tamang-Golay has repeatedly urged PM Modi to allow the Buddhist leader to return to India.
