A reception to celebrate His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 76th birthday was hosted by the Office of Tibet, London, on 6 July.

The over 80 invited guests gathered at the John Martin Gallery in central London included representatives of Buddhist and other religious groups, charitable organisations, Tibet Support Groups, politicians, journalists, diplomats, members of the Tibetan community, and other friends and supporters of Tibet. The Office of Tibet, London, had also received many birthday greetings and well wishes for His Holiness from numerous friends and supporters in the UK and abroad.

The formal programme for the evening reception started with prayers for the long life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama conducted by Lelung Rinpoche followed by a welcome speech by Mr Thubten Samdup, Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the Office of Tibet, London. Mr Samdup spoke of His Holiness’ immense efforts and many achievements on behalf of both the Tibetan people and the wider world. The Representative concluded his speech to the assembled guests by saying: “…we Tibetans feel very fortunate to
have the Dalai Lama as our leader. I believe that he is one of the most outstanding individuals in the world today. Throughout his life, His Holiness has lived through example – the embodiment of what it means to practice compassion, to respect human rights for everyone, and to promote religious harmony in order to make this world a better place for each one of us.

“Today is therefore a very special and joyous occasion for all Tibetans, both inside and outside Tibet, and we truly appreciate our friends coming to celebrate with us. For those who have come from far away – I want to extend my sincere personal gratitude for the special effort you have made.”

The Representative’s speech was followed by the performance of two Tibetans songs by London-based Tibetan singer Ngawang including Kha-teen-chen, a song in praise of His Holiness composed by two Tibetans living in London, and Drog-po la, a song to greet and thank the guests for attending the reception. The performance was greatly appreciated by all those present.

On 2 July, the Office of Tibet, London, along with the Tibetan Community in Britain and the Tibet Society had organised a wider celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s birthday. Over 250 Tibetans and supporters gathered for the special Trunkar at the hall in London’s Chalk Farm which was brightly decorated with Tibetan door hangings and Tibet flags, and Tibetan prayer flags. The stage area was backdropped with a large picture of the Dalai Lama in front of which there was an altar with candles and khatags. The 2 July evening programme began with a long-life prayer for His Holiness the Dalai Lama and an introduction by His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Representative Mr Thubten Samdup. The entertainment began with the Tibetan Community Dance Group performing traditional dances in a variety of colourful Tibetan costumes. The undoubted highlight was the performance by the Group’s youngsters, who ranged in age from 3 to 15.

A special recognition award was presented to Mr Sonam Frasi by the Tibetan Community in Britain for his 10 year service as a Chitue (Member of Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile) and many years of service to the Tibetan Community and the Tibet movement in general.