Celebration of the 90th Birthday of the Dalai Lama

Group photo at the celebration of the 90th birthday of the Dalai Lama.

On 6 July, thousands of Tibetans and their supporters gathered worldwide to celebrate the 90th birthday of the Dalai Lama. Major commemorations took place in Dharamsala, India — the seat of the Tibetan community in exile — and were attended by foreign dignitaries and representatives. An important gathering of the highest lamas within Tibetan Buddhism also took place, in which their support for the continuation of the Dalai Lama institution was reaffirmed. These events received extensive coverage in the international media.

In the Netherlands, Tibetans and their supporters also gathered on Dam Square in Amsterdam, despite the bad weather and persistent rain. Driven by deep gratitude and admiration for the Dalai Lama and his lifelong commitment to peace, compassion, and altruism, they celebrated this special milestone. The celebration was organized by the Tibetan Community in the Netherlands, with support from Tibet Support Group Netherlands, the International Campaign for Tibet Europe, Students for a Free Tibet, and the Tibetan singer Chosang.

Religious leaders at the celebration on Dam Square in Amsterdam.

The gathering was enhanced by the presence of representatives of various world religions. All expressed their respect for the universal message of compassion, human values, and interreligious harmony that the Dalai Lama advocates. On a large screen, inspiring quotes from the Dalai Lama were displayed, contributing to the uplifting atmosphere.

Tsering Jampa, chairperson of Tibet Support Group Netherlands, emphasized in her speech the ancient spiritual bond between India and Tibet, as well as the profound impact of the Dalai Lama’s teachings — not only on Tibetans but on millions of people worldwide. She called for renewed commitment to supporting the Dalai Lama in his pursuit of a peaceful resolution to the Tibet-China conflict through dialogue.

Tibet Support Group also offered interactive activities, such as information about the four main commitments of the Dalai Lama. Visitors could also write personal birthday wishes on special cards for the Dalai Lama — an activity in which hundreds enthusiastically participated. To mark this festive occasion, the renewed website of Tibet Support Group was also launched.

Norbu Tsering, chairman of the Tibetan Community, warmly thanked all attendees and wished His Holiness a long life and continued success in spreading his message of peace and compassion. The celebration concluded with a traditional Tibetan folk dance, which filled the heart of Amsterdam with joy and happiness.

Traditional Tibetan dance at the celebration on Dam Square in Amsterdam.

In stark contrast, the situation within Tibet remained tense and under strict surveillance. In the lead-up to 6 July, reports emerged of increased police and military presence. Chinese government officials visited various Tibetan regions and monasteries, which appeared to be part of a broader strategy to enforce ‘stability.’

Chinese state media gave wide publicity to these government activities and explicitly warned against expressions of support for the Dalai Lama. The actions covered areas in the so-called Tibet Autonomous Region, but also Tibetan-populated parts of Qinghai and Sichuan provinces. Other areas may have been similarly targeted.