Richard Gere joins celebrations in Dharamshala ahead of Dalai Lama's 90th birthday: 'It's always a delight being here...'
As the serene hills of Dharamshala prepare to mark a historic milestone—the 90th birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama—the region has transformed into a spiritual hub, drawing devotees, dignitaries, and global well-wishers. Among them is Hollywood actor and long-time supporter of the Tibetan cause, Richard Gere, who has arrived in Himachal Pradesh to take part in the heartfelt celebrations. With events already underway as per the Tibetan calendar, the atmosphere is one of reverence, gratitude, and reflection, honouring a life dedicated to peace, compassion, and global unity.
At the Nechung Monastery event, Richard shared that he was in Dharamshala to celebrate the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday, highlighting the spiritual leader’s health, strength, and compassion. He also expressed a personal connection to the monastery, calling it significant for both him and his son.
Gere also spoke about his personal bond with the Nechung Monastery, sharing that the Dalai Lama has visited his home in the US and shares a close relationship with his son. He added that having visited the monastery many times, he now feels a deep connection to the place and always finds joy in being there.
During an important ritual at the Nechung Monastery, the Nechung Oracle—considered a protector deity of the Tibetan community—entered a trance to bless the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and its leaders. The ceremony was attended by CTA President Penpa Tsering, ministers, parliament members, and many Tibetan devotees.
CTA President Penpa Tsering explained the importance of the ceremony, noting that the invocation of the Nechung Oracle holds deep significance. Along with Palden Lhamo, Nechung is recognized as an official protective deity of the Tibetan administration, and the oracle is traditionally consulted for guidance during challenging or uncertain times.
During the June 30 celebration at Tsuglagkhang, the main Tibetan temple in Dharamshala, the Dalai Lama made a brief public appearance. He reiterated his lifelong commitment to peace, compassion, and serving both the Tibetan people and the global community.
At the Nechung Monastery event, Richard shared that he was in Dharamshala to celebrate the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday, highlighting the spiritual leader’s health, strength, and compassion. He also expressed a personal connection to the monastery, calling it significant for both him and his son.
Gere also spoke about his personal bond with the Nechung Monastery, sharing that the Dalai Lama has visited his home in the US and shares a close relationship with his son. He added that having visited the monastery many times, he now feels a deep connection to the place and always finds joy in being there.
During an important ritual at the Nechung Monastery, the Nechung Oracle—considered a protector deity of the Tibetan community—entered a trance to bless the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and its leaders. The ceremony was attended by CTA President Penpa Tsering, ministers, parliament members, and many Tibetan devotees.
CTA President Penpa Tsering explained the importance of the ceremony, noting that the invocation of the Nechung Oracle holds deep significance. Along with Palden Lhamo, Nechung is recognized as an official protective deity of the Tibetan administration, and the oracle is traditionally consulted for guidance during challenging or uncertain times.
During the June 30 celebration at Tsuglagkhang, the main Tibetan temple in Dharamshala, the Dalai Lama made a brief public appearance. He reiterated his lifelong commitment to peace, compassion, and serving both the Tibetan people and the global community.
Next Story