London, 18 November 2025: Geshe Lhakdor, Director of the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, delivered the Tibet House Trust Annual Talk 2025 at Friends House, London, speaking on the theme “The Power of Compassion in Overcoming Fear and Navigating Modern Challenges.”

Established in 2019, the Annual Talk Series has become the signature event of Tibet House Trust. Now in its seventh year, the 2025 edition carried added significance as it coincides with the Year of Compassion, commemorating the life and enduring contribution of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Patron of Tibet House Trust.

Opening his address with a short yet profound Buddhist verse in homage to His Holiness, Geshe Lhakdor reflected on the global challenges that continue to cause widespread suffering. He emphasised the need to cultivate a compassionate mindset grounded in wisdom to lead an ethical, meaningful and joyful life. Underscoring the transformative influence of soft power—rooted in culture, values and compassion—he urged greater promotion of these qualities over the pursuit of hard power.

Drawing on illustrative anecdotes and his characteristic humour, Geshe Lhakdor encouraged the audience—whom he described as part of the “silent majority”—to speak up in defence of universal human values.

Following the talk, he invited questions from the floor, prompting an enthusiastic response from the more than 60 invited guests affiliated with Tibet House Trust. His thoughtful and often light-hearted answers elicited warm laughter and appreciation from the audience.

Earlier in the evening, Representative and Chair of Trustees, Tsering Yangkey, welcomed the guests, introduced Geshe Lhakdor, and offered a brief overview of both the Year of Compassion and the Annual Talk Series.

Delivering the vote of thanks, Secretary Tenzin Kunga encouraged attendees to reflect on the key insights shared during the evening, expressed gratitude for their presence and support, and appealed for their continued solidarity with the Tibetan cause.

The success of the event was reflected in the feedback received the following day, including a message from attendee John, who wrote: “I enjoyed the lecture yesterday evening. It was very enlightening, and was delivered by Geshe Lhakdor with great charm and wit.”

Geshe Lhakdor departed the United Kingdom on 19 November to return to India.

-Report filed by Office of Tibet, London