Brussels, 6 July 2025: In expression of profound gratitude and admiration for His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama—for his lifelong dedication to global peace through the teachings of love, compassion, and altruism, and for his tireless efforts to preserve Tibetan cultural and religious heritage, as well as support the well-being of the Tibetan exile community—thousands gathered in Antwerp to celebrate his 90th birthday.

The day-long celebration brought together over a thousand attendees from across Belgium—Tibetan supporters, admirers, and followers—all united in vibrant tribute to the Tibetan spiritual leader’s enduring legacy.

The Belgium Ghoton Organising Committee, composed of eight Tibetan associations—U-Tsang Cholka, Dhokam Chushi Gangdruk, Dhomey Cholka, RTYC, RTWA, People’s Middle Way, Students for a Free Tibet (SFT), and VTAG—with the essential support of the Office of Tibet, Brussels, worked tirelessly to bring this grand celebration to life.

Tenzin Phuntsok, EU Advocacy Officer at the Office of Tibet, Brussels, and Zeden Karma, President of Students for a Free Tibet Belgium, served as Masters of Ceremony, skillfully guiding the audience through the day’s rich program.

Festivities began at noon with a lively public gathering featuring musical performances, community games such as Tambola, and a variety of food stalls offering strictly vegetarian meals and traditional Tibetan refreshments.

At 3:00 PM, dignitaries, Buddhist associations, Tibet Support Group representatives, and community guests marked the transition to the formal segment. The official program commenced with the enthronement of His Holiness’s portrait, followed by Khatag and Mendrel offerings presented by the Chief Guest, other dignitaries, and members of the audience. The Tibetan national anthem was sung with pride, and a minute of silence was observed in honour of Tibetan martyrs.

A spiritual invocation led by Geshe Tseten Phuntsok and fellow monks was followed by the ceremonial offering of sweet rice (Dresil) to guests and the public. The joyful cake-cutting ceremony became a central highlight of the event, which was well supported by a group of young children who sang the birthday song with a Tibetan lute. An Opera offering and an elegant Tashi Shölpa dance further enriched the spiritual and uniqueness of the moment.

Distinguished speakers then took the stage. Dhundup Gyalpo, Tibetan Liaison Officer for Europe, delivered the welcome speech.

Special guest Ranyag Patrul Rinpoche from Zhogchen Gelek Palbar Ling Buddhist Institute shared profound spiritual reflections on His Holiness. Remarks followed from the Guest of Honour, Luyckx Carlo, President of the Belgian Buddhist Union.

The Chief Guest, Genkhang Rigzin Choedon, Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Central Tibetan Administration, in her keynote address invited Tibetans worldwide in rejoicing His Holiness’ affirmation earlier during the week that the sacred institution of His Holiness the Dalai Lama will continue in accordance with the will of the Tibetan people. She then urged the public to embody the core values of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s teachings in their daily lives and emphasised the importance of becoming a good human being. Quoting His Holiness, she reminded the audience that “if you cannot help others, at least do not harm them”.

Representative Genkhang also called on fellow Tibetans to preserve and promote their unique cultural and national identity. She stressed that safeguarding the Tibetan language and values starts at home and is essential for their survival as a people. Her speech served as a powerful reminder of the responsibilities each individual holds in upholding the teachings of His Holiness.

-Report filed by Bureau du Tibet, Brussels