The celebration of His Eminence Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche’s 85th birthday on November 5, 2024, at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) in Dharamshala was a momentous occasion that profoundly honoured His Eminence’s life, legacy, and immense contributions. The meticulously organized event witnessed the deep reverence and gratitude felt by all for His Eminence’s enduring impact on Tibetan society and beyond.
This year marks the tenth anniversary of the initiative to disseminate the invaluable wisdom, knowledge, and activities of His Eminence Professor Samdhong Rinpoche through digital media. Lha launched this project on Rinpoche’s 75th birthday, November 5, 2014. Today, the archive hosts over 3,000 documents, videos, and audio files, making Rinpoche’s profound teachings, writings, and speeches easily accessible online. This unique and vital digital repository is an unparalleled resource for Tibetan studies, preserving the essence of Rinpoche’s thoughts and wisdom for generations to come.
The day began with reverence as dignitaries and attendees gathered for a ceremonial lamp lighting, symbolizing wisdom and enlightenment. The Honourable Chief Guest, Mrs. Dolma Tsering, Deputy Speaker of the Tibet Parliament-in-Exile; the Guest of Honour, Geshi Lhakdor, Director of the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives; and the Special Guest, Professor Sonam Gyaltsen, Professor at Sarah College for Higher Tibetan Studies, led the proceedings. Together, they lit the ceremonial lamp, and all present recited prayers for the long life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and His Eminence Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche, with the chanting led by four monks from Gyuto Monastery.
Guests paid heartfelt tributes by offering ceremonial scarves to the portraits of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and His Eminence, accompanied by a rendition of the Tibetan National Anthem that resonated with pride and unity.
Mr. Lobsang Rasel, Chairman of Lha Charitable Trust, delivered the welcome speech, followed by an Introductory speech by Mr. Ngawang Rabgyal, Former Director of Lha Charitable Trust.
The morning session unfolded with a formal ceremony, insightful speeches by dignitaries, and vibrant cultural expressions. A highlight of the event was the performance of a moving tribute song by the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts. This moment truly engaged the audience and resonated with the spirit of the celebration. It was followed by a celebratory cake-cutting ceremony, adding a touch of festivity to the event. The release of a bilingual photographic biography, The Golden Wheel of the Dual Systems: A Brief Biography of His Eminence Prof. Smashing Rinpoche, and the premiere of the documentary Life and Legacy of His Eminence Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche: A Brief Biography, were instrumental in sharing the story of Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche’s extraordinary life and achievements with a broader audience. The biography book is being distributed for free at the event, as well as to school libraries and other institutions. The documentary video has been published on YouTube and has already been viewed by thousands of people.
The afternoon session transitioned into an intellectual discourse, with esteemed experts and leaders delivering insightful speeches that left the audience profoundly enlightened and inspired.
The topics and the speakers of the afternoon session are as follows.
- “Professor Samdhong Rinpoche’s exceptional intellect and courage for the means in accomplishing the far-reaching guidance and thoughts of His Holiness the Dalai Lama” by Venerable Kyabje Yangten Rinpoche, Secretary of the Office of H.H. The Dalai Lama.
- “The impact of Professor Samdhong Rinpoche’s wisdom and achievements on Indian society, particularly in the Himalayan regions” by Ven. Geshe Thupten Kunphen, Former Abbot of Gontse Gaden Rabgyeling Monastery, Bomdila, and Chairman of Sherab Sangpo Society, Delhi.
- “The unique qualities and influence of His Eminence’s approach to Buddhism” by Venerable Geshe Khedup Norzang, Senior Instructor at Gyuto Monastery.
- “Professor Samdhong Rinpoche’s contributions to Tibetan language and literature” by Professor Redo Sangay at Kirti Institute of Higher Tibet Studies.
- “His Eminence’s pivotal role in advancing Tibetan democracy and institutional reforms” by Mr. Lobsang Nyendak, Former Minister of the Central Tibetan Administration.
- “His Eminence’s philosophy, intellect, and enduring legacy” by Prof. Rakhdo Rinoche, Central Institute of Higher Tibet Studies.
- “His Eminence’s contributions to Tibetan education through leadership in shaping the Basic Education Policy” by Mrs. Tenzin Pema, Director of the Office of Tibet Education Council, CTA. Esteemed experts discuss their topics in detail, which are then separated into individual segments and published on YouTube for easy online access
The event concluded with a Word of Thanks from Lha Executive Director Mr. Tsering Wangdue, expressing gratitude to all who contributed to its success. A delicious lunch was served to all guests and attendees, strengthening community and celebration and making everyone feel included, valued, and inspired.
The event’s livestream reached an impressive 55,000 viewers worldwide, while 200 guests attended in person, reflecting the widespread admiration for His Eminence. The guests and participants included CTA’s former ministers, officials, and current Secretaries, directors, the Secretaries of the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, senior Lamas and scholars, as well as heads of other NGOs and institutions, and members of the public.
The event’s success was evident in the meticulous planning and collaboration of the organizing committee, as well as the collective respect and honour for His Eminence Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche. The celebration enhanced a sense of cultural unity, academic enrichment, and profound inspiration. It served as a reminder of the enduring relevance of His Eminence’s exceptional work and the shared responsibility of continuing Rinpoche’s legacy.
