The Aryavarth Express:
McLeodganj (Himachal Pradesh): Supporters of the Tibetan movement from across India gathered in McLeodganj on Wednesday to offer long life prayers for Tibetan spiritual leader Tenzin Gyatso.
The prayer ceremony was organised by the Core Group for Tibetan Cause-India, an umbrella body that coordinates various Tibet support groups across the country.
Speaking at the event, national convener R. K. Khrimey said the gathering was historic as it brought together people from different religious and regional backgrounds in India to pray collectively for the well-being and longevity of the Dalai Lama.
“This is the first time in our country’s history that Tibetan support groups comprising people from different religions—Hindus, Muslims, Christians and others—have come together to offer long life prayers for His Holiness the Dalai Lama,” Khrimey said.
He also highlighted the long-standing cultural and historical ties between India and Tibet and spoke about the broader significance of the Tibetan cause.
The event included traditional ritual performances by participants from Arunachal Pradesh. Sonam Wangdue, representing communities from the state, explained the spiritual significance of the Cho practice performed during the ceremony.
According to Wangdue, the Cho ritual was historically practiced by yogis in sacred mountain settings and is now often performed as an offering to the deity Trima Nangmo, also known as Krodhi Kali, seeking blessings and protection.
“He is everything to our community. We consider His Holiness our root guru and guide. We pray for his long life because his vision and teachings are very important for us,” Wangdue said.
Supporters from different parts of the country also attended the gathering to express solidarity with the Tibetan cause. Kamlakar Payas, who travelled from Amravati, said participants prayed for the Dalai Lama’s long life and voiced support for Tibet.
Meanwhile, Pankaj Goyal, founding convener of the group and national association minister of Bharat Tibet, said the ceremony is part of global celebrations marking the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday year.
Around 45 participants from Arunachal Pradesh led the ceremony by performing traditional Cho prayers, a ritual symbolising detachment from material attachments. Organisers said the gathering reflected growing support among Indian citizens for the Tibetan cause and the Dalai Lama’s message of peace, compassion and non-violence.
