DHARAMSALA: "From my side, I dedicate this very life that I have now to helping limitless sentient beings to the best of my ability," remarked Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, who turned 88 on Thursday. "I am determined to bring others as much benefit as I can," His Holiness said in a message to people around the world.
Meanwhile, on the occasion of the 88th birthday of the Tibetan spiritual leader, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to him and conveyed heartfelt greetings. Taking to Twitter, PM Modi wrote, "I spoke to His Holiness @DalaiLama and conveyed heartfelt greetings to him on his 88th birthday. Wishing him a long and healthy life."
Revered by the Tibetans as a 'living god' and idolised in the Orient and the West, an elderly Buddhist remarked: "I urge you to adopt a courageous resolve such as I, your friend, have done. My spiritual friends, please give support to my thoughts. What you have done so far was right; it was the right thing to do."
Tens of thousands of Tibetan exiles, believers, and followers attended celebrations worldwide to mark the birthday of the leading spiritual figure who brings Buddhist teachings to the international community.
In his abode in McLeodganj, uphill in this northern Indian hill town in Himachal Pradesh, large crowds began to assemble in the morning at the hilltop Tsuglagkhang temple to join the celebrations.
"Special prayer sessions are being held for the well-being and long life of the Dalai Lama," a spokesperson for the government-in-exile told IANS.
His Holiness attended prayers and blessed his followers. The Dalai Lama describes himself as a simple Buddhist monk. For Tibetans, he is the human manifestation of Chenrezig, the Bodhisattva of compassion.
The elderly monk, known for his simplicity and jovial style, prefers to participate in meetings with religious leaders and lectures businessmen on ethics for the new millennium and the art of happiness.
He chuckles throughout his talk and often slaps visitors on the back.
Born on July 6, 1935, to a farming family in a small hamlet in Taktser in Amdo province in northeastern Tibet, (Agencies)
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