Canberra: The Tibetan community in Canberra observed the 37th birthday of the 11th Panchen Lama, Gedun Choekyi Nyima, on 25 April 2026 at the newly built Sakya Temple of Peace. The event featured prayers for his long life and early release.

Attendees included former Chief Justice Commissioner of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) Sonam Norbu Dagpo, Representative Karma Singey, Spiritual Director of the Tibetan Buddhist Society of Canberra (Sakya Losal Choe Dzong) Lama Choedak Rinpoche, as well as executive members and other members of the local Tibetan community.

At the conclusion of the prayer session, Representative Karma Singey spoke briefly about the circumstances following the recognition of the 11th Panchen Lama by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, noting that he was taken into Chinese custody and has remained missing for over 31 years. He added that despite repeated appeals from international bodies and UN human rights experts, the Chinese government has yet to provide any verifiable information regarding his current status.

In Sydney, the Tibetan Weekend Language School also marked the occasion with a long-life prayer ceremony and a short introduction to his life. Student representatives from each class recited teachings and guidance of His Serenity the 10th Panchen Lama, performed poetry, sang group songs, and presented exhibitions of paintings and writings reflecting his life and legacy.

-Report Filed by Office of Tibet, Canberra