SEATTLE, June 4 – On June 4, the Tibetan community here held a special celebration to mark the 70th birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, which actually falls on July 6.
Presided over by His Eminence Sakya Jigdal Dagchen Rinpoche, the celebration began with the recitation of a long life prayer for the Tibetan leader.
This was followed by the offering of Mendel Tensum by Sakya Dagchen Rinpoche, office-bearers of the Association, members of the community and Sakya Monastery, as well as friends of Tibet.
More than 150 people participated in the celebration, which, according to Association President Tashi Namgyal, was the largest convergence of Tibetans and their friends in Seattle.
The highlight of the celebration was a performance of Black Hat Dance and Deer Dance by Sakya Monastery.
“The dances are meant to dispel obstacles and negative vibrations for the life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama,” Tashi Namgyal said.
Local artistes of Nyechen Thangla entertained the celebrants with special performances.
HE Sakya Jigdal Dagchen Rinpoche addressed the Tibetans, urging them to follow the advice of Holiness the Dalai Lama.
“Tibetans should leave aside petty differences and work unitedly for our common goal,” Dagchen Rinpoche said.
“We have organized this as a gesture of our gratitude and reverence to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and also to rededicate ourselves to the path shown by him,” said Tashi Namgyal.
