In a display of reverence and celebration, the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday was recently commemorated near a unique and significant landmark: the Gurusheng tree, grown from his walking stick in Zemithang, Arunachal Pradesh. The celebrations, which took place on Sunday, were centered around prayers for the Dalai Lama's long life and well-being.
The story of the Gurusheng tree is intertwined with the Dalai Lama's escape from Tibet in 1959. During his journey into India through Zemithang, he rested at Kinzamani, leaving his wooden walking stick on a stone. The local Monpas recognized the stick as a branch of the Gurusheng tree, which has since grown into a major attraction. The fully grown tree bears fruit and is considered a spiritual landmark, with many believing that prayers offered beneath it can fulfill wishes. Last year alone, the tree attracted approximately 18,000 tourists.
Lama Kalzang Lhundrub, secretary of Gorzam Stupa Culture Centre, mentioned that the prayers for the Dalai Lama's long life were organized under the Gurusheng tree by the lamas of Zemithang, along with other guests, dignitaries, and the public. Following the prayers at Kinzamani, the main celebrations commenced in front of a photo of the Dalai Lama at Gorzam Stupa, where he had stayed on April 1, 1959, and delivered a sermon. Students from various schools in Zemithang also organized events, including a plantation drive at Kinzamani.
The Dalai Lama's 90th birthday celebrations extended beyond Arunachal Pradesh, with thousands of followers gathering in Dharamshala, India, where he has been living in exile since 1959. The celebrations included cultural performances and messages from global leaders. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his warmest wishes, recognizing the Dalai Lama as "an enduring symbol of love, compassion, patience, and moral discipline". U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also extended best wishes, emphasizing the Dalai Lama's message of "unity, peace, and compassion".
In his birthday message, the Dalai Lama, describing himself as "just a simple Buddhist monk", reiterated his commitment to promoting human values and religious harmony. He also expressed his hope to live another 30 to 40 years, continuing to serve sentient beings and the Buddha Dharma.
The Dalai Lama's milestone birthday arrives amidst rising tensions regarding his succession. While the Dalai Lama has stated that he will reincarnate and that his successor should be recognized per Buddhist traditions, the Chinese government insists on having the final say in the selection process. This has raised concerns among Tibetans in exile about the potential for rival claimants to the position.
