Paonta: The Tibetan residents of the Paonta Cholsum Tibetan Settlement, joined by local dignitaries, commemorated the 90th birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama on 6 July 2025.

The celebration commenced at the settlement’s community hall following the arrival of chief guest Shri Sukh Ram Chaudhary, MLA of Paonta, and special guests Shri Dr. Madan Lal Khurana, President of the Indo-Tibetan Friendship Society (Sirmaur District), and Shri Aninder Singh Notty, President of Vyapar Mandal, Paonta Sahib.

The event began with the installation of His Holiness’ portrait, followed by the reading of official statements: one from the Kashag, delivered by Tibetan Settlement Officer (TSO) Gelek Jamyang, and another from the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, read by Sherab Gyatso, President of the Local Tibetan Assembly.

The chief guest and both special guests addressed the gathering, offering heartfelt greetings and expressing deep respect for His Holiness. They reaffirmed their support for the Tibetan cause, stating, “We offer our sincere prayers for the long life of His Holiness and an early resolution to the Tibetan-China conflict.”

TSO Gelek Jamyang presented mementoes to the dignitaries and gifted copies of Voice for the Voiceless, a book by His Holiness, to attending guests and members of the press. In a symbolic environmental gesture, water bottles—donated through the benevolence of Dagmo Kalden—were distributed in place of plastic bottles, promoting environmental sustainability.

In recognition of his over nine years of dedicated service, TSO Gelek Jamyang received a special award from the chief guest, in accordance with a resolution passed during the fifth session of the 10th Local Tibetan Assembly, Paonta Cholsum.

An exhibition showcasing the life and work of His Holiness, including seventeen educational panels, was displayed for public viewing. Additionally, free medical check-ups were provided to underprivileged local citizens as part of the day’s outreach.

As part of the wider festivities, Tibetan residents decorated Paonta market and surrounding areas with banners containing the four principle commitment of His Holiness. Shri Aninder Singh Notty also presented tokens of appreciation to members of the Local Tibetan Assembly and the regional Tibetan Election Committee. Assembly President Sherab Gyatso distributed recognition awards from the Department of Home to former camp leaders serving in the 1st to 3rd terms.

The program concluded with vibrant cultural performances by local residents and students of Sambhota Day School, expressing their deep devotion and gratitude to His Holiness.

-Report filed by Tibetan Settlement Office, Paonta Cholsum