‘He Belongs to the Universe’: Richard Gere Receives Dalai Lama’s Blessings on His 90th Birthday
Hollywood actor Richard Gere received blessings from the Dalai Lama on the Tibetan spiritual leader’s 90th birthday in Dharamshala. The celebrations featured national anthems, cultural performances, and participation from Indian ministers.
Renowned actor and devoted Buddhist Richard Gere was blessed by the 14th Dalai Lama during his 90th birthday celebrations on Sunday in Dharamshala.
The actor was spotted engaging with the Tibetan spiritual leader amid grand celebrations, which also saw the presence of Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju and Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan (Lalan) Singh.
During the event, Gere remarked, “Your Holiness, on behalf of all of us from the West, I recall something very moving I witnessed at a spiritual conference—it was the affirmation that His Holiness would continue the Dalai Lama institution. Many of the Lamas who spoke at the event said clearly: the Dalai Lama no longer belongs just to Tibet—he belongs to the world… he belongs to the universe.”
Famous for his legendary roles in several Hollywood films, Gere has consistently raised global awareness for the Tibetan cause.
Reflecting on his visit to Dharamshala, Gere earlier shared, “All of my close friends are here to commemorate the 90th birthday of the 14th Dalai Lama. This monastery holds deep significance for me and my companions. Being here always brings immense joy.”
Dharamshala Marks Dalai Lama’s 90th Birthday With Grand Celebrations
The festivities began with the playing of both the Tibetan and Indian national anthems at the Main Tibetan Temple, the venue for the 90th birthday ceremony.
Thousands gathered in Dharamshala to participate in the event, where traditional dancers in vibrant costumes performed to rhythmic gong beats.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended his greetings to the Dalai Lama on his milestone birthday.
“I join 1.4 billion fellow Indians in conveying our heartfelt wishes to His Holiness the Dalai Lama on turning 90. He remains a timeless beacon of compassion, love, patience, and ethical discipline. His teachings have earned reverence across all religions. We wish him enduring health and a long life,” the Prime Minister wrote.
The Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday comes shortly after his declaration regarding his succession plans, stating that only his own office holds the “exclusive right” to determine his future reincarnation.
“No other entity has the authority to interfere in this matter,” he emphasized in a pre-recorded message.
His statement stands in direct contrast to China’s long-standing stance on the issue. In response, Beijing reiterated that it retains the authority to select the next Dalai Lama, citing traditional practices from the time of imperial China.
