The Office of Tibet in Pretoria hosted a special celebration marking the 91st Birthday Anniversary of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, bringing together diplomats, academics, faith leaders, members of the Tibetan community, and friends of Tibet to honour one of the world’s most respected advocates for peace, compassion, non-violence and human dignity.
Held under the theme “Celebrating the Year of Compassion,” the gathering recognised the lifelong contributions of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to global peace, interfaith harmony, dialogue, and universal human values.
Ceremony Opens with National Anthems and Tribute to Freedom
The programme commenced with the singing of the National Anthems of Tibet and South Africa, following a warm welcome by the Programme Director.
Guests then observed a moment of silence in memory of all those who have laid down their lives in the pursuit of freedom and justice.
A special prayer in honour of His Holiness the Dalai Lama was led by Khenpo Jamyang Gonpo la, Deputy Representative of Tibet, invoking blessings for the continued health, long life and guidance of the Tibetan spiritual leader.
US Embassy Highlights Dalai Lama’s Enduring Message
Delivering remarks on behalf of the United States Embassy, Deputy Political Counsellor Ms Lauren Ladenson said it was a privilege to attend the celebration and praised the warm hospitality of the Tibetan community.
She described the Dalai Lama as a global symbol of peace and compassion whose message remains especially significant in a world facing increasing division and uncertainty.
Referring to a message earlier this year from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, she acknowledged the resilience and fortitude of Tibetans worldwide, saying those qualities are embodied by His Holiness himself.
She concluded by inviting guests to join in wishing the Dalai Lama happiness, good health and many more years of inspiring humanity to embrace kindness, patience and peace.
Ms Ladenson noted that this year’s celebration focuses on His Holiness’ enduring message of kindness, empathy and global responsibility, values she said transcend borders and continue to inspire millions around the world.
Representative of Tibet Reflects on the Dalai Lama’s Legacy
The Representative of the Central Tibetan Administration in South Africa, Dhundup Gyalpo la, expressed appreciation to guests for joining the celebration.
He described His Holiness the Dalai Lama as both a spiritual and moral leader whose influence extends far beyond the Tibetan community.
For Tibetans and millions of Buddhists across the Himalayan region, he said, the Dalai Lama is revered as the manifestation of Avalokiteshvara (Chenrezig), the Bodhisattva of Compassion, while also serving as a powerful symbol of Tibetan identity, culture and history.
Dhundup Gyalpo la highlighted His Holiness’ role in introducing democratic reforms within the Tibetan administration, noting that Tibetans often regard their democratic system as a precious gift from the Dalai Lama himself.
He also reflected on the Dalai Lama’s unwavering advocacy for non-violence, interfaith harmony, environmental protection and dialogue, recalling his belief that the 21st century must become a century of dialogue where conflicts are resolved through peaceful engagement rather than violence.
Recognising his global influence, he noted that His Holiness received the 1989 Nobel Peace Prize for his lifelong commitment to peaceful resistance and mutual respect.
He further highlighted the Dalai Lama’s efforts to bridge Buddhist philosophy, science and modern academic thought, helping bring the principles of ahimsa (non-violence) and karuna (compassion) to audiences worldwide.
He ended with a personal prayer expressing his wish to continue serving His Holiness in future lives.
Concluding his remarks, he shared one of His Holiness’ most cherished prayers: “As long as space remains, as long as sentient beings remain, until then may I too remain to help dispel the misery of the world.”
Messages of Support from Academia and Friends of Tibet
Several distinguished guests also delivered messages of solidarity in honour of the Dalai Lama’s birthday.
Representing the University of South Africa (UNISA), Prof. Joel Mogoati commended His Holiness for his unwavering commitment to peace, compassion and inter-religious dialogue.
Prof. Mogoati announced an important initiative currently underway at UNISA, confirming that the Dalai Lama has granted permission for the establishment of the Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu Centre for Peace, a centre that will promote peacebuilding, reconciliation and dialogue inspired by two of the world’s greatest moral leaders.
Philosopher Guy Hazon reflected on his personal meeting with the Dalai Lama and praised Tibet’s long-standing philosophical and spiritual traditions.
He emphasised the importance of openness, dialogue and mutual respect between different belief systems, saying the Tibetan tradition provides valuable lessons on how philosophy, science and religion can work together in pursuit of human understanding.
Offering a heartfelt message of solidarity, Prince Thulani Gatsha Mrhetha spoke about his volunteer work with the Office of Tibet and encouraged continued prayers for peace, unity and compassion.
He reflected on the pain experienced by Tibetans living in exile while applauding their determination to preserve their language, culture and identity despite decades away from their homeland.
Prince Mrhetha urged future generations to embrace compassion, understanding and respect, saying these values represent the true meaning of life.
Celebrating a Global Messenger of Peace
The celebration concluded with renewed appreciation for the enduring legacy of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, whose teachings continue to inspire people of all faiths and backgrounds to embrace compassion, peaceful dialogue and shared responsibility for humanity.
As guests gathered in Pretoria to mark this milestone, the event reaffirmed the Dalai Lama’s lasting influence as one of the world’s foremost voices for peace, non-violence and reconciliation.
