Reports have been coming in from Tibet that in advance of Dalai Lama’s birthday this month, the Chinese authorities have tightened restrictions across Tibetan-populated areas by blocking public gatherings and activities.
Despite all the restrictions and bans from Chinese authorities, a large number of Tibetans gathered at monasteries in Gansu province to mark and celebrate the 80th birthday of their leader by displaying the Dalai Lama’s portrait and making offerings and prayers.
An altar set up in open area to pray for Dalai Lama on his birthday
Photo: Tibet
On June 23, thousands of Tibetans gathered at Jonang Chamda monastery in Qinghai’s Golog prefecture to honour both the Dalai Lama’s birthday and a senior Jonang monk, Khenchen Sherab Salje whose birthday also falls in the same month. The monks of Chamda monastery brought a portrait of Dalai Lama, placing it on a throne and reciting a three-day long prayer of blessing for His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s long life.
In Kardze prefecture, Tibetan monks and villagers gathered at an open area, set up an altar and offerings in front of a large photo of His Holiness and offered prayers. In other areas of Kardze, both laypeople and monks marked the auspicious day by engaging in various celebration activities.
According to sources who have contacts in Tibet, Chinese authorities have issued serious bans on activities related to the celebration of Dalai Lama’s birthday on July 6.
In Gansu province, two Tibetans were detained for organising a Tibetan horse racing competition which took place June 10 – 13. The only requirement for the participants was that they save the life of at least one animal and dedicate this act of kindness to the Dalai Lama. No further information was provided about the two men after their detention.
Radio Free Asia reported that Tsering Dondrub from Rebgong was arrested for posting photos of the Tibetan flag and the Dalai Lama on the popular social media application, Wechat.
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