.png)
DHARAMSALA, India — Amid the sound of drums, music, and applause, the Dalai Lama stepped into Dharamsala’s main temple courtyard on Sunday, his 90th birthday.
Welcomed by Tibetan cultural performers, the Tibetan spiritual leader was greeted by schoolchildren dressed in uniforms, monks, and residents, both young and old, dressed in their finest traditional attire.
The stage featured a backdrop proclaiming a “Year of Compassion” with images of Nelson Mandela, Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., and Mother Teresa. The Dalai Lama was seated alongside Indian government officials and leaders from the Tibetan exiled government. Also on the dais was actor Richard Gere — a longtime Tibetan rights supporter — and his son.
Birthday messages from international leaders including former U.S. Presidents Clinton, Bush, and Obama were shared from the stage.
“Your unwavering devotion resonates with all those who cherish freedom, democracy and respect for human rights, values that...
 (1).jpg)
 (1).jpg)
 (1).jpg)
 (1).jpg)
 (1).jpg)
