Tibetan Community of Switzerland & Liechtenstein Observe the 89th Birthday Anniversary of His Holiness the Dalai Lama

The Tibetan community of Switzerland and Liechtenstein gathered in Zurich to celebrate His Holiness’ birthday on 6 July 2024. This ceremonial occasion was honoured by the attendance of Thinlay Chukki, the representative from the Tibet Bureau in Geneva.

This year, the Tibetan community in Switzerland and Liechtenstein organised their programs differently. The proceedings commenced with religious rituals conducted by the monks of Rikon Monastery, followed by a prayer service for the well-being of His Holiness. Furthermore, community members participated in the ceremonial offering of white scarves and a long-life offering led by the chief guest and other distinguished attendees. Subsequently, all attendees paid their respects by standing for the national anthem and observed a one-minute silent tribute to the Tibetan self-immolators.

In the third part of the program, the celebratory event began with an opening speech and greetings by Drongpatsang Ngoedun Gyatso, the president of the Local Tibetan Assembly of the Tibetan Community of Switzerland and Liechtenstein. He emphasised the importance of unity among the Tibetan people and urged everyone to act on the commitments of His Holiness. Additionally, he highlighted the ongoing need to preserve Tibetan language and culture. He also emphasised the significance of setting a positive example and exerting a more significant influence on the younger generation regarding Tibetan culture and language. Furthermore, he spoke about the importance of the Central Tibetan Administration.

In his address, Khen Rinpoche of Rikon Monastery referred to His Holiness the Dalai Lama as a 21st-century living Buddha and highlighted his legacy of promoting human peace, compassion, and education worldwide. Rinpoche also urged the public to participate in the monthly prayer services at Rikon Monastery.

Subsequently, Thinlay Chukki, the chief guest delivered a speech regarding the visit of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Switzerland. She expressed gratitude to the individuals from various Tibetan organisations, particularly the bodyguards, for their dedication and support. Furthermore, it was announced that the forthcoming commemoration of His Holiness’s 90th Birthday Anniversary will be conducted on a grand scale, as per the declaration by the Central Tibetan Administration.

Following the chief guest’s address and the guests’ remarks, Tibetan students in Switzerland and Liechtenstein showcased cultural performances.

The Vice the president of the Local Tibetan Assembly of the Tibetan Community of Switzerland and Liechtenstein, Kangrang Kalsang Namgyal, delivered an expression of gratitude speech, which was succeeded by a presentation of cultural opera dance and other traditional performances.

Nearly two thousand people gathered to celebrate His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 89th Birthday Anniversary.