The Canberra Tibetan community celebrated His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 86th birthday on Tuesday, 6 July. Over a hundred people gathered to celebrate the auspicious occasion with strict adherence to the government’s guidelines on Covid 19 pandemic.
The formal ceremony commenced with the installation of His Holiness’ portrait on the throne followed by a serving of traditional ceremonial sweet rice (dre-sil) and tea. Representative Karma Singey, who was the chief guest on the occasion, read out the Kashag’s statement on the occasion and spoke about the importance of following His Holiness’s messages of love and compassion. He said that the best gift we can offer on His Holiness’ birthday is to do some good and kind work to help others. Taking the opportunity, the Representative also thanked all the community members for their generous donation towards Covid -19 relief fund as per urgent appeal issued by the Central Tibetan Administration.
The community members devoted some part of the auspicious occasion for the recitation of Avalokiteshvara mantras (Om Mani Padme hung) for the long life and good health of His Holiness.
The celebration was also highlighted by zestful and vibrant rounds of traditional Tibetan songs and dance performances by the young community members.
On this joyous occasion, the co-chairs of Australian All-Party Parliamentary Support for Tibet (AAPPT) Mr. Warren Entsch, MP, and Ms. Susan Templeman, MP, extended their good wishes to His Holiness the Dalai Lama on his 86th birthday.
Mr. Warren Entsch in a video message said, “I would like to wish His Holiness the Dalai Lama a very very happy birthday and my sincere best wishes for the coming years. Ms. Susan Templeman through her Facebook page said, “I want to extend my respect to His Holiness and thank him for the inspiration that he provides for so many people around the world and particularly his promotion of religious harmony which is something very important for our community.”
Many other prominent figures including Hon. Jason Falinski, MP, Former MP, and former Chair of AAPPT Michael Danby and Reverence Bill Crews also expressed their warm birthday wishes to His Holiness.
