Dalai Lama arrives in New York for knee treatment

His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the 88-year-old spiritual leader of Tibet, arrived in New York on June 23 to receive medical treatment for his knees. After being greeted by Dr. Namgyal Choedup, His Holiness' designated representative to the United States, the Dalai Lama headed to his hotel in Midtown Manhattan, where hundreds of people had gathered to see him.

Many people traveled long distances and waited for hours to see the Dalai Lama. Benefactor Tsering Chozom expressed the significance of the day, saying, “Today is a special day for all Tibetans in New York, and we receive the blessing of the Dalai Lama. » Delgert Sogt added: “It’s a very happy day for all of us. » (CBS News)

“I knew I had to come here for this unique opportunity. And I think waiting outside for those four or five hours is definitely worth it,” Tenzin Kunkyi said. “There’s a strong sense of community when you’re here, everyone passes bread. . . Besides receiving a blessing from seeing His Holiness, we also strengthen our Tibetan connection here outside. (Reuters)

Other dignitaries and religious leaders present to greet the Dalai Lama included Dr. Varun Jeph, Deputy Consul General at the Consulate General of India in New York; Avdhesh Kumar, vice-consul; and Abhimanyu Gehlaut; as well as former ministers of the Central Tibetan Administration, Abbot Sera Jey Tashi Tsedar and Akya Rinpoche. The Central Tibetan Administration estimates that 4 people were at the airport to receive the Dalai Lama, while thousands more greeted him on the way to his hotel.

This visit marks the Dalai Lama's first trip to the United States since 2017. He has no public engagements planned for this trip.

Earlier this month, a bipartisan congressional delegation, led by Republican Rep. Michael McCaul and House Speaker Emeritus Nancy Pelosi, visited the Dalai Lama at his residence in Dharamsala, India, which is the seat of the Dalai Lama since his departure from Tibet in 1959.

The delegation also met with officials of the Tibetan government in exile and leaders of the Indian government, discussing various topics related to Tibetan culture and religious practices. The U.S. lawmakers spoke at a rally at a monastery near the Dalai Lama's home, where participants waved U.S. and Tibetan flags. They stressed the importance of religious freedom and the preservation of Tibetan culture.

The visit highlighted the U.S. Resolve Tibet Act, which aims to encourage dialogue and cooperation between Tibetan and Chinese leaders on cultural and religious issues. The bill has passed Congress and will be sent to President Joe Biden to sign into law.

The Dalai Lama, born Lhamo Thondup on July 6, 1935 in Taktser, Tibet, is the 14th Dalai Lama. He was recognized as the reincarnation of his predecessor at the age of two. In 1950, at the age of 15, he gained full political powers after China's invasion of Tibet. Nine years later, following a failed uprising, he fled to India, where he established a government in exile in Dharamsala.

Tibetan Buddhism, rooted in the Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions, emphasizes the pursuit of enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. The Dalai Lama is revered not only as a spiritual leader, but also as a symbol of Tibetan identity and resilience. Its teachings emphasize compassion, non-violence and the importance of interfaith dialogue.

“His Holiness' presence here in the United States is a spiritual boon, as he is going here after seven years,” said Tashi Kyiloe from New York. “It is a great opportunity for elderly people like me to receive his blessing. » (Radio Asia Libre)

The Dalai Lama's visit to New York and his interactions with U.S. lawmakers underscore continuing international interest in the cultural and religious preservation of Tibet. The passage of the Resolve Tibet Act by the U.S. Congress is seen as an important step toward promoting dialogue and cooperation on these issues.

See more

Dalai Lama arrives in New York to receive medical treatment (CBS News)
Dalai Lama arrives in New York for medical treatment (Reuters)
His Holiness the Dalai Lama arrives in the United States, more than 10 people gathered to receive His Holiness (Central Tibetan Administration)
Thousands welcome Dalai Lama's arrival in US for knee surgery (Radio Free Asia)
Dalai Lama (Facebook)

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