His Holiness the Dalai Lama Honours 33 Retired CTA Officials

DHARAMSHALA: Tibetan spiritual leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama on Wednesday honoured 33 retired CTA officials in recognition of their tireless service and dedication to Tibetan cause and people. His Holiness presented Songtsen Gampo statue and certificate to the former civil servants.

The ceremony organised by Public Service Commission of Central Tibetan Administration was held at the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Addressing the ceremony, His Holiness commended the valour and spirit of the Tibetan civil servants for coming to serve during the most difficult struggle and said that by doing so, they had earned limitless merit.

“In a time when our country and people were facing what was the darkest period in history, you had come to serve the greater cause. This is the most meaningful service to the Tibetan people and Buddha dharma. In that regard, all of you have lived a very meaningful life,” His Holiness said.

“Indeed our people have endured great suffering, but we have been successful in carrying down the vast tradition of Tibet and legacy of the great Tibetan emperors and scholars. We should truly be proud.”

He added, “Today, it is we Tibetans who have preserved the complete and the pure Nalanda tradition. I feel that this tradition is of immense value to humanity. It can benefit not only the people of Tibet, but also a large number of Chinese Buddhists who are renewing their interest in Tibetan Buddhism. So our people have done well to preserve this tradition through many generations”.

His Holiness further remarked that the Tibetan culture and religion will continue to flourish and serve people. “Even in the past although politically Tibet was divided into many territories, our language, culture and religion have united all of us as people of Tibet. In that view, Tibetan language and culture have played a crucial role in upholding the unity of Tibet and it continues to be so”.

He told them to feel proud and confident for what they had given for the cause and not be worn down by old age. “Your generation has done much work in service of Tibetan people and dharma. As in Buddhist practice of recognising one’s good deeds, instead of praying for achieving great realisations, simply pray to be reborn as a Tibetan, as a follower of Buddha dharma and continue to serve sentient beings”.

His Holiness continued, “I am over 82 years old and about to enter 83 and I live with no regrets. On one hand, it was very unfortunate for us to be in exile but on another hand, this has brought us great opportunities for Tibetan people, culture and religion”.

Speaking exclusively to Tibet.net, Ms Nangsa Chodon, retired CTA official said, “The audience with His Holiness today was very heartwarming and exceptionally moving; an experience like never before. I ask the younger lot in service to pay heed to His Holiness’ advice, and irrespective of age and seniority in service, commit to the cause with sincerity, dedication and steadfast commitment”. Ms Nangsa Chodon has served the Central Tibetan Administration for over 40 years in various portfolios.

Along with the honoured officers, a group of 30 former recipients of Songtsen Gampo award also received the audience.