Dalai Lama recovering from knee replacement surgery in US
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Press Trust of India Dharamsala (Himachal Pradesh)
Tibet’s spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, celebrated his 89th birthday on Saturday and said in a birthday message that he is in good physical health and determined to continue serving the Buddha’s teachings.
The Dalai Lama is recovering from knee replacement surgery in the United States.
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“I am soon to turn 90 and apart from a slight discomfort in my leg I am feeling fine. I would like to thank all Tibetans inside and outside Tibet for their birthday wishes,” his Holiness said in a text message sent from his office.
“Despite the surgery, I am in good health and I wish everyone to be happy and relaxed,” he said, adding: “I am determined to continue following the Buddha’s teachings.”
“Today, Tibetans inside and outside Tibet are celebrating my birthday with great joy and pomp. All Tibetans and people of the Himalayan region are also praying for me. I would like to thank you all,” His Holiness said.
“I’m a little worried about my health, but that’s just due to aging, so there’s nothing I can do about it. I’m basically fine. Please relax and take it easy,” he added.
“Through the title of Dalai Lama I have made certain contributions to the Buddha’s teachings to people inside and outside Tibet and in many parts of the world. I am determined to continue to serve the teachings and to do so with all my heart and soul,” the message read.
His birthday was celebrated with great enthusiasm in McLeodganj and was attended by Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang as the guest of honour, Arunachal Pradesh Member of Parliament Tapir Gao, Speaker of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly Mingma Norbu Sherpa, Deputy Speaker of the Ontario Legislative Assembly Butira Karpoche, several Sikkim Ministers and other dignitaries.
In a statement, the Tibetan government-in-exile prayed for the Dalai Lama’s long life.
“May you live long and your wishes be fulfilled without any hindrance. May the truth of our cause prevail and Tibetans inside and outside Tibet be reunited soon,” the statement said.
