Dharamshala, 5^th July: His Holiness the 14^th Dalai Lama’s birthday is one of the most important events in Tibetan society. Thousands of people worldwide used to flock to McleodGanj, Dharamshala, where the His Holiness lives, to be a part of the His Holiness the 14^th Dalai Lama’s birthday celebrations. The Central Tibetan Administration, dignitaries from the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, officials from the Government of Himachal Pradesh, representatives from the Government of India, and a variety of notable global personalities frequently attended the festivities. In light of ongoing attempts to contain the Covid-19 outbreak, CTA will broadcast the official Trungkar celebration live on Tibet TV, allowing everyone to participate virtually from the comfort of their own homes.

His Holiness the 14^th Dalai Lama turns 86 on July 6, and in light of the ongoing pandemic, the Kashag, or cabinet of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), has directed Tibetans to avoid congregating and instead celebrate at home. The Kashag Secretariat directed Tibetans to recite the Chenrezig mantra, “Om Mani Padme Hung,” the six-syllable mantra of the bodhisattva of compassion, who is said to have reincarnated as the Dalai Lama and his predecessors, in addition to “offering of the mandala and white scarves to the portrait of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.”

The Kashag has issued advice for the Dalai Lama’s 86th birthday. “In accordance with Himachal Pradesh government issued guidelines and SOPs for social gatherings with a limit of up to 50 people, Kashag Secretariat directs all monasteries and settlements to avoid public gatherings and instead mark the day as per tradition: offering of the mandala and white scarves to His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s portrait,” the advisory reads.

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