The Dalai Lama honored as "Peerless Teacher of the 21st Century"

Historic ceremony honors the 14th Dalai Lama's 90th birthday during landmark stop on the Compassion Rising World Tour

DHARAMSALA, India, June 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In an unprecedented birthday ceremony planned by the Dhomay Organising Committee for the 90th birthday celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama, was officially recognized by all Tibetans as "The Peerless Teacher of the Twenty-First Century." The ceremony, held on the fifth day of the fifth month of the Wood-Snake Year, marked a significant milestone as representatives from multiple faith traditions, including Tibetan Buddhism, Chinese Buddhism, Theravada traditions from India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Burma, as well as Hindu, Christian, Islamic, Baha'i, Jewish, Jain, and Sikh communities, united to honor the spiritual leader. The occasion also marks a key stop in the Compassion Rising World Tour—a global initiative spearheaded by the International Campaign for Tibet to commemorate this milestone and support the Central Tibetan Administration's Year of Compassion. Formal birthday celebrations organized by the Central Tibetan Administration will commence on July 5.

Symbol of universal peace and compassion

This recognition coincides with the global celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday, as observed on the Tibetan calendar, honoring a remarkable life dedicated to non-violence, interfaith harmony, and universal compassion. 

Since being exiled from Tibet in 1959, His Holiness has reshaped global discourse on peace and reconciliation. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989, he has emerged as one of the world's most revered advocates for human rights and environmental stewardship.

"His Holiness has demonstrated that authentic spiritual leadership transcends religious boundaries," said a spokesperson for the Dhomay Organising Committee of the 90th birthday celebration. "His teachings on interdependence, universal responsibility, and compassionate action have guided millions toward peace and understanding, making him truly the peerless teacher of our time."

Exquisite insignia presented

The centerpiece of the ceremony was the presentation of a specially crafted golden and silver insignia, notable for its extraordinary beauty and deep spiritual significance. According to ceremonial documentation, the elaborate memorial includes a multi-tiered longevity vase at its base, symbolizing His Holiness as an embodiment of Buddha Amitayus. A white lotus represents purity despite worldly engagement, while a crystal globe signifies his universal domain of enlightened activity. Sun and moon symbols illustrate the union of emptiness and compassion. A golden image of the Dalai Lama in a standing prayer posture embodies Avalokiteshvara's compassion. The insignia is adorned with ornate jeweled patterns and white lotus motifs representing wish-fulfillment and divine emanation. A sacred halo indicaties his indivisible nature with the Buddha. The piece is further distinguished by intricate traditional Tibetan artistic elements that showcase exceptional craftsmanship.

Global impact and legacy

Born Lhamo Thondup on July 6, 1935, in Taktser, Tibet, His Holiness the Dalai Lama has devoted his life to promoting "secular ethics"—universal values that transcend religion, culture, and nationality. Guided by compassion and a deep concern for humanity's shared collective future, he has championed a wide range of global challenges. These include advocacy for disarmament, with a particular emphasis on the elimination of weapons of mass destruction; environmental stewardship and raising awareness of climate change; the promotion of interfaith dialogue to foster understanding among the world's religions; educational reform that integrates compassion and emotional well-being alongside academic achievement; and global mental health awareness, stressing the importance of inner peace over material success.

His Middle Way approach to the Tibet conflict exemplifies his unwavering commitment to non-violent conflict resolution. This pragmatic and peaceful path has earned him international recognition and serves as a powerful model for resolving disputes without resorting to violence.

Multi-faith recognition

The ceremony drew unprecedented participation from global religious leaders, marking a rare moment of interfaith unity. Representatives from the Central Tibetan Administration's three democratic pillars joined spiritual leaders in acknowledging His Holiness's contributions to world peace and understanding. "This recognition reflects not just Buddhist devotion, but global appreciation for a leader who has consistently chosen dialogue over conflict, compassion over hatred," noted an interfaith council representative. 

Continuing mission at 90

As His Holiness celebrates his 90th birthday according to the Tibetan calendar, the ceremony emphasized his ongoing commitment to global peace and education. His recent focus on secular ethics in education and dialogue between science and spirituality continues to influence international policy and educational curricula worldwide. The Dalai Lama's teachings on interdependence have become increasingly relevant as humanity faces climate change, global inequality, and political polarization. His message that "inner peace is the foundation of world peace" resonates across cultural and religious boundaries. 

About the recognition

The title, "The Peerless Teacher of the Twenty-First Century", acknowledges His Holiness's unique role in guiding humanity toward non-violent solutions to global challenges. Unlike conventional religious honors, this recognition emphasizes his universal appeal and practical contributions to human welfare beyond doctrinal teachings. The ceremony, organized by the Dhomay people on behalf of all Tibetans, represents the culmination of decades of grassroots support from diverse communities worldwide who have found guidance in His Holiness's teachings on compassion, mindfulness, and ethical living.

Media contact:

Name: 
Thupten Lungrig
Organization: 
Dhomay Organising Committee 90th Birthday Celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama Dharamsala, India
Phone:
+91 96676 39336
Email:  
[email protected]

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SOURCE International Campaign for Tibet