Local Hindu leaders receiving His Holiness the Dalai Lama with a ceremonial lamp at the Kangra Airport in Gaggal, HP, India on August 28, 2024
In a heartwarming homecoming, His Holiness the Dalai Lama returned to Dharamsala today after a two-month journey that included medical treatment for his knees in New York. His arrival marked a moment of profound joy and relief for the local and Tibetan communities, who eagerly awaited his return.
The Dalai Lama’s journey back home included a brief stopover in Zurich and a day of rest in Delhi. The weather was favorable for his flight from Delhi to Dharamsala, which not only departed on time but also landed nearly half an hour ahead of schedule.
Upon his arrival at Kangra Airport in Gaggal, His Holiness was warmly welcomed by a delegation that included Sikyong Penpa Tsering, the political leader of the Central Tibetan Administration, and Ven. Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, the Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament. In addition to these Tibetan leaders, local representatives of various faith traditions—Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism-gathered to receive him with warmth and respect. A ceremonial lamp was presented by local Hindu leaders, symbolizing the unity and harmony among different religious communities in the region.
The streets of Dharamsala were lined with large numbers of Tibetans and well-wishers, eagerly anticipating a glimpse of His Holiness as he made his way to the Main Tibetan Temple complex. At various locations, including Civil Lines, Hari Koti corner, and the road leading to the Tsuglagkhang, monks, nuns, and laypeople dressed in their finest attire, many holding white silk scarves and burning incense. Their faces radiated joy and reverence as His Holiness waved and smiled at them from his car, bringing a sense of renewed vitality to the town.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, three groups of Tashi Sholpa dancers performed energetically at key locations, including the airport, the gate to Gangchen Kyishong, and near the Tsuglagkhang. Their vibrant songs and dances further amplified the celebratory spirit of the day.
As His Holiness approached his residence, former Kalons, Secretaries, and senior officials of the Central Tibetan Administration gathered to salute him, reflecting the deep respect and admiration that the Tibetan community holds for their spiritual leader. One official remarked that with the Dalai Lama’s return, there was a palpable sense that Dharamsala had come back to life.
This homecoming not only marks the end of His Holiness’s medical treatment abroad but also reaffirms his enduring connection to the people of Dharamsala and the broader Tibetan community. His presence brings a renewed sense of hope and joy, underscoring the deep bond between the Dalai Lama and his followers.
As Dharamsala buzzes with the excitement of his return, the town is once again enveloped in the spiritual warmth and wisdom of its most revered resident, the 14th Dalai Lama.
In a heartwarming homecoming, His Holiness the Dalai Lama returned to Dharamsala today after a two-month journey that included medical treatment for his knees in New York. His arrival marked a moment of profound joy and relief for the local and Tibetan communities, who eagerly awaited his return.
The Dalai Lama’s journey back home included a brief stopover in Zurich and a day of rest in Delhi. The weather was favorable for his flight from Delhi to Dharamsala, which not only departed on time but also landed nearly half an hour ahead of schedule.
Upon his arrival at Kangra Airport in Gaggal, His Holiness was warmly welcomed by a delegation that included Sikyong Penpa Tsering, the political leader of the Central Tibetan Administration, and Ven. Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, the Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament. In addition to these Tibetan leaders, local representatives of various faith traditions—Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism-gathered to receive him with warmth and respect. A ceremonial lamp was presented by local Hindu leaders, symbolizing the unity and harmony among different religious communities in the region.
The streets of Dharamsala were lined with large numbers of Tibetans and well-wishers, eagerly anticipating a glimpse of His Holiness as he made his way to the Main Tibetan Temple complex. At various locations, including Civil Lines, Hari Koti corner, and the road leading to the Tsuglagkhang, monks, nuns, and laypeople dressed in their finest attire, many holding white silk scarves and burning incense. Their faces radiated joy and reverence as His Holiness waved and smiled at them from his car, bringing a sense of renewed vitality to the town.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, three groups of Tashi Sholpa dancers performed energetically at key locations, including the airport, the gate to Gangchen Kyishong, and near the Tsuglagkhang. Their vibrant songs and dances further amplified the celebratory spirit of the day.
As His Holiness approached his residence, former Kalons, Secretaries, and senior officials of the Central Tibetan Administration gathered to salute him, reflecting the deep respect and admiration that the Tibetan community holds for their spiritual leader. One official remarked that with the Dalai Lama’s return, there was a palpable sense that Dharamsala had come back to life.
This homecoming not only marks the end of His Holiness’s medical treatment abroad but also reaffirms his enduring connection to the people of Dharamsala and the broader Tibetan community. His presence brings a renewed sense of hope and joy, underscoring the deep bond between the Dalai Lama and his followers.
As Dharamsala buzzes with the excitement of his return, the town is once again enveloped in the spiritual warmth and wisdom of its most revered resident, the 14th Dalai Lama.