Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Shri Chowna Mein, attended the 89th birthday celebration of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama at the Lhagon Jangchup Choeling Monastery, Dhargyeling Tibetan Settlement Camp in Tezu.
This year's celebration was particularly significant, marked by the 12th General Assembly of the Asian Buddhist Conference for Peace (ABCP) unanimously declaring July 6 as the 'Universal Day of Compassion' in honor of His Holiness's birthday.
In his address, Deputy Chief Minister Mein conveyed warm birthday greetings on behalf of the entire state, noting the global celebration of this momentous occasion and calling for the embrace of the Dalai Lama's teachings of compassion, peace, and harmony.
Reflecting on the Dalai Lama's passage to India in 1959 during a tumultuous period in Tibet, Mein recounted how the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, sought refuge in India, passing through Arunachal Pradesh where compassionate locals provided sanctuary. He highlighted the historical importance of Khinzemane and Lumla in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh, where the His Holiness Dalai Lama took shelter while escaping Tibet. Mein suggested that the His Holiness Dalai Lama's trail, along with mystical monasteries and breathtaking treks in Lumla, could be developed into a unique spiritual and historical destination.
Mein also expressed deep appreciation for the Tibetan communities for zealously preserving their rich cultures and traditions, emphasizing the importance of preserving and appreciating this heritage. He further assured the support of the Government of Arunachal Pradesh for the welfare of the Tibetan community residing peacefully in their demarcated camps.
On the occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Mein received a Shield and a Certificate of Appreciation from the Tibetan Settlement Office in Tezu, on behalf of the Central Tibetan Administration in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.
Earlier, dignitaries offered prayers at the Lhagon Jangchup Choeling Monastery for the well-being and long life of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. The celebrations featured captivating performances of traditional Tibetan dances by cultural troupes and camp members, creating a delightful atmosphere. A cake-cutting ceremony was held, reflecting the deep respect and admiration for His Holiness.
The event was also attended by His Eminence Ven Dzogchen Ganor Rinpoche, the esteemed abbot of Lhagon Jangchup Choeling Monastery, along with dignitaries including Minister of Education, Rural Works and Tourism, Shri Pasang Dorjee Sona; Minister of WCD, Cultural Affairs and Science & Technology, Smriti Dasanglu Pul; Advisors Shri Dr. Mohesh Chai, Shri Mutchu Mithi, Shri Mopi Mihu, and Shri Chau Zingnu Namchoom; former Minister Shri Nakul Chai; DC Lohit, Shri Shashvat Saurabh; DC Namsai, CR Khampa; and SP Lohit, Shri Tumme Amo, among others.