London: The Tibetan Peace Garden celebrated its Silver Jubilee Anniversary on 10 December 2024, a significant milestone that coincided with World Human Rights Day. The event highlighted the shared values of peace, compassion, and universal responsibility at the heart of the garden’s mission and the global commitment to fundamental rights and freedoms.

Speaking at the event, the 11th Lelung Rinpoche emphasised the harmonious alignment between the Tibetan Peace Garden’s message of unity and non-violence and the principles of human rights. “By promoting the Peace Garden on this day, we aim to draw attention to the importance of upholding human rights as a foundation for peace. Together, we can honour these values and continue to advocate for a world where every person is treated with compassion and fairness,” Rinpoche said.

The occasion drew religious leaders from various faith communities, including Hindu, Sikh, Muslim, Christian, and Jewish representatives, who led prayers for world peace, symbolising interfaith unity and collaboration.

Representative Tsering Yangkey of the Office of Tibet, London, marked the occasion by reading a special statement from His Holiness and extending congratulations to all those associated with the Tibetan Peace Garden. Reflecting on the garden’s enduring legacy, Representative Yangkey noted, “This is not just a celebration of years gone by but of the timeless spirit of peace, compassion, and harmony envisioned by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama when he blessed and inaugurated the Tibetan Peace Garden in 1999.”

Expressing gratitude to the religious leaders and attendees, she underscored the collective responsibility to nurture the garden’s message. “Let us reaffirm our commitment to work together to spread peace and compassion, ensuring that the legacy of this garden flourishes for generations to come,” she implored.

Representative Yangkey was joined by Under Secretary Tenzin Zeydhan, alongside a diverse gathering of Tibetans, dharma practitioners, supporters, and locals, all united in celebrating the garden’s enduring significance.

Opened in 1999 near the Imperial War Museum, the Tibetan Peace Garden stands as a profound symbol of non-violence and reconciliation, embodying His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s vision. The garden features the Kalachakra mandala at its centre, a powerful symbol of interconnectedness and universal responsibility. Set against the backdrop of a site that recalls the devastation of war, the garden inspires hope, reflection, and the pursuit of a harmonious future.

The Silver Jubilee Anniversary celebration served as a poignant reminder of the Tibetan Peace Garden’s role in fostering understanding and its continued relevance in a world striving for peace and justice.

-Report filed by Office of Tibet, London