Bylakuppe: The Tashi Lhunpo Monastery resonated with jubilant festivities on Apr. 25 as the community gathered to honour the 35th birthday of His Holiness the 11th Panchen Lama Tenzin Gendun Choeki Nyima Rinpoche.

The celebration, attended by over 1,100 individuals, commenced with a solemn long life prayer session conducted by the monks of Tashi Lhunpo Monastery at the Assembly prayer hall from 6 am to 8 am.

Dawa Tsultim, Secretary of the Health Office of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), led the congregation in the Sang Prayer, a sacred ritual symbolising unity and blessings.

Dignitaries including the Representative Abbot of Tashi Lhunpo Monastery and Jigmet Tsultim, Chief Representative Officer of the South Zone, along with representatives from various monasteries, nunneries, officials and organisations from around Mysuru District, graced the ceremony.

Following the Sang Prayer, the attendees witnessed the unveiling of a portrait picture of His Holiness the 11th Panchen Lama, a moment marked by humility and reverence.

The festivities continued with prayers and a joyous cake-cutting ceremony. Speeches by the Representative Abbot of Tashi Lhunpo Monastery and chief guest Dawa Tsultim underscored the profound impact of His Holiness’ teachings and contributions to Tibet’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

As part of the celebration, awards were presented to the winners of poetry competition and a new magazine was launched, showcasing literary talents within the community.

The event concluded with vote of thanks by Kachen Jamyang, Administration Officer of Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, expressing gratitude to all participants for their support and dedication in making the celebration a success.

Cameraman and Kachen Rigzin Nurbu diligently captured the essence of the event. The birthday celebration of His Holiness the 11th Panchen Lama exemplified the enduring reverence and devotion of the community towards their beloved spiritual leader.

Representative Abbot, chief guest Dawa Tsultim, Chief Representative Officer Jigmet Tsultim, representatives from monasteries and nunneries were present.