Bangalore: To commemorate the 85th birthday of renowned world leader and Tibetan spiritual head, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, in line with the Kashag’s guidance on public gathering restrictions amidst the Wuhan origin COVID-19 pandemic, the following report was submitted by the South Zone Office on the official programme.

Bangalore South Zone Office

At 9 am, South Zone Office’s Secretary Karma Gelek-led staff, Director of Tibetan Youth Hostel and staff, joined by the students gathered at the prayer room of the Youth hostel, decked in their traditional finery and made offerings to the protector deity. As per the directions of the Gaden Phodrang Office, the attendees dedicated 1000 mani prayers to Chenrezig, followed by the Lhaso ceremony and a collective folk dance in the courtyard.

Then at 11 am, in the conference hall, Secretary Karma Gelek conducted the lighting of the butter lamps and offered ceremonial scarves to the portrait of His Holiness, similarly, all the staff, Director of TCV wards’ hostel and staff followed in his steps and offered scarves.The serving of the ceremonial sweet rice and tea followed.

Secretary Karma Gelek gave the introductory speech and recounted the history of the Kashag as well. The students organised lunch and a variety of games, concluding the event on a high note.

Ooty sweater-sellers association under the authority of South Zone Office

Ooty-based Tibetan sweater-sellers association led by the President and members submitted a report of the programme held there.

On the auspicious occasion, the hoisting of flag was observed, after which offerings were made to the deity protectors for the long life of His Holiness and prayers were dedicated. At the official programme, chief guest and Birig Principal K.S.Siva
Prakash presiding over the event, gave the address and distributed the facemask received from the South zone Office to the public.

The members were able to visit the offices of District official Innocent Divya and current MLA Govindha who were given token gifts to introduce them to the occasion.

Dalai Lama Institute under the authority of South Zone Office

Dalai Lama Institute’s staff and students marked the day by making offerings to the protector deity, decked in their traditional refinery. As per directions from the Gaden Phodrang Office, they dedicated a 1000 mani prayers to His Holiness.

Tibetan businesses based in Bangalore, similarly, marked the day by making offerings to the deity and dedicating mani prayers for the long life of His Holiness.

–Filed by the South Zone Office, Bangalore