Darjeeling: The program commenced at 7:30 am with the offering of the Sangsol, attended by the Chief Representative Officer (CRA) of Northeast and the President of BRDL, Darjeeling, along with the head and executive members of the Regional Tibetan Youth Congress, Regional Tibetan Women’s Association, and Cholkha Sum. This was followed by the main program at the Gorkha Ranga Mancha auditorium, famously known as Bhanu Bhawan – the cultural epicentre of Darjeeling. It is considered an integral part of the town, both for locals and tourists alike, not just for its architectural design and appeal as a tourist attraction but also as a centre for artistic expression, offering dedicated spaces for theatrical performances, music, dance, film screenings, orchestra, and a wide range of cultural events.

Before the arrival of the Chief Guest and other invitees, the program began with the offering of Mandala and khatags before the portrait of His Holiness the Dalai Lama by all those present in the hall. This was accompanied by the chanting of the long-life prayer of His Holiness, led by the chant master and monks from Druk Sangag Choeling Monastery, Dali. After the Tibetan and Indian national anthems were sung by students of Sambhota Tibetan School, Darjeeling, two songs dedicated to His Holiness on his 90th birthday were performed. Butter tea and sweet rice were served to mark the auspicious occasion. The speeches of the Kashag (Cabinet – Central Tibetan Administration) and the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile were delivered by CRO-Northeast Dorjee Rinzin and Yeshi, respectively.

Upon the arrival of the Chief Executive of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration and President of the Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha, Darjeeling, Anit Thapa, as Chief Guest, the program was formally inaugurated with the lighting of the butter lamp. CRO-Northeast Dorjee Rinzin gave the welcome speech and delivered the message of the Kashag in English for the guests, followed by the cutting of the birthday cake and a speech by the Chief Guest. In his address, Chief Guest Anit Thapa expressed appreciation for the profound teachings of His Holiness on peace, tolerance, and compassion, noting that these teachings had personally helped him overcome many challenges as a public figure. He suggested that everyone should follow His Holiness’ teachings if they seek inner peace, regardless of their religious beliefs. He further added that he was overwhelmed with joy at being able to cut the birthday cake, attributing it to the good deeds of his previous lives. He concluded by expressing his eagerness to participate in such joyous occasions in the future.

Also in attendance were Dipen Thakuri, Chairman of the Municipality of Darjeeling, as Special Guest; Anit Lama, Chief Adviser to the GTA Chief Executive; Shri Samden Dukpa, Executive Director, GTA & Ex-Officio Joint Secretary; Shri Sonam Bhutia, Executive Director, GTA & Ex-Officio Additional Secretary; Lhakpa Bhutia, Executive Engineer, Municipality of Darjeeling; Tsewang Bhutia, Officer in Charge, DIB Darjeeling; Dawa Tshering Bhutia, Senior Joint Commissioner (GST); Samdup Drukpa, President of the Indo-Tibet Friendship Society; Vikram Rai; and presidents and representatives from the Himalayan Buddhist Cultural Society, Kyidu Chu (Ten Associations), Dharma Chakra Committee, Tamang Association, Sherpa Association, Walung Association Ghoom, Tibetan Muslim Association, and Yolmo Association.

The program also included the presentation of Goton souvenirs to all guests and invitees. A special certificate of appreciation was awarded to Pema Choephel and Ama Ngawang Samten for their long and distinguished community service. Certificates of merit were also presented to four students from Sambhota Tibetan School, Darjeeling, who received distinction awards for best calligraphy in a competition organised by the Manjushree Centre for Tibetan Culture, Darjeeling. Dawa Norbu and Dickey Palzom were felicitated for running 90 km in dedication to the 90th birthday celebration, starting at 2:00 am and concluding at the event venue. A special lunch was served to the public and visitors. The entire Yaks Veteran Team from Darjeeling – winners of the 2nd edition of the APFA Golden Cup – were also felicitated on stage with the Chief Guest.

Later in the day, the second part of the Trungkar celebration continued at Chowrasta, a public square frequented by both tourists and locals. The Regional Tibetan Women’s Association, Darjeeling, organised a Gorshey dance along with the distribution of water and sweets to visitors. The second and third days of the Goton celebration were announced to be held in the school compound, coinciding with the annual cultural show and School Fete 2025, as confirmed by the Local Goton Committee in its earlier meetings to encourage greater public participation.

The Manjushree Centre for Tibetan Culture, Darjeeling, screened Tibetan documentaries, interviews related to His Holiness, and messages from renowned public figures and religious leaders of various faiths and Buddhist traditions across the globe. These screenings took place at the Chowrasta billboard from morning to evening on 6 and 7 July in honour of His Holiness’ 90th birthday.

-Report filed by Chief Representative Office, Darjeeling