Also on 23 May, at 6 pm, the Shadzhin Lama of Kalmykia Telo Tulku Rinpoche will give a lecture on bodhichitta.
It should be noted that on 17 May about 7,500 people prayed for the longevity of His Holiness in Dharamsala (India). The entire courtyard from the residence gates to the temple and the temple itself were richly decorated with flower garlands and bouquets. The columns were diligently wrapped in multi-coloured fabric. Everyone greeted His Holiness as he left his residence. His Holiness the Dalai Lama goes to the main Tibetan temple to take part in the ceremony of offering prayers of longevity.
The prayer service ended with the words: “May your life be indestructible, like a vajra. May the day come when the Tibetans will reunite. Yes, the day will come when you will ascend again to the lion throne of the Potala Palace. Guide us in this life and in the following one. Receive our prayers.” After that, His Holiness was presented with a statue of Amitayus Buddha and later another eight auspicious symbols, seven symbols of royal power and eight auspicious substances were brought. Religious leaders and honoured guests from the CTA presented silk scarves.
Then the mandala offering took place and a prayer to His Holiness asking for his longevity took place. The prayer said that the Dalai Lama gives teachings throughout the world, making a significant contribution to maintaining harmony between religious denominations, protecting the environment and preserving Tibetan cultural heritage. It also calls for non-violent behaviour and promotion the values of secular ethics in the name of universal good.
His Holiness addressed the audience: “When I became unwell, many people around the world, including in Tibet and beyond, began to pray for me, and I want to express my sincere appreciation to you once again. Those who prayed for me did it from the heart, which is why I am sure that they will be effective and will bring significant benefits. Thank you".