Rabongla Celebrates Historic Day Honoring the Dalai Lama with Unity and Devotion

Rabongla, Sikkim – In a heartfelt celebration of unity, culture, and spiritual heritage, the town of Rabongla commemorated the anniversary of the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal awarded to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. The occasion, held during this Year of Compassion marking His Holiness’s 90th birthday, brought together diverse communities in a powerful expression of reverence and reconciliation.

The event was jointly organized by the Bhutia Social Welfare Association of 9–Barfung, Rabongla, and the Kunpheling Tibetan Settlement. It marked a significant moment of harmony, as past differences were set aside in favor of a renewed commitment to shared faith and lineage.

Tibetan calligrapher Jamyang Dorjee, reflecting on the occasion, described it as “a truly memorable day of harmony, gratitude, and shared joy.” The celebration not only honored the Dalai Lama’s enduring legacy of compassion and peace but also served as a bridge between communities that have long shared spiritual and cultural roots.

A key highlight of the day was the inaugural prayer ceremony led by the Lhatsun and Soshing Dharma Centres. Their prayers underscored the profound devotion and resilience of elder practitioners, adding a deeply spiritual dimension to the proceedings.

Local leaders and dignitaries played a pivotal role in organizing and supporting the event. Gratitude was expressed to Mr. Kalsang Tseten, the Tibetan Settlement Officer, and his team; Mr. Phu Tshering Bhutia and Mr. Lhendup Bhutia; and the Bhutia Social Welfare Association for their leadership and collaboration. Special recognition was given to Shri Rigshal Dorjee Bhutia, Member of the Legislative Assembly, who was acknowledged as the “unifying force behind this historic day.”

A warm community lunch hosted by the Kunpheling Tibetan Settlement fostered further camaraderie, while the Bhutia Social Welfare Association honored Jamyang Dorjee for his contributions to Buddhism in Sikkim — a gesture he described with humility and gratitude.

In the heart of the Eastern Himalayas, this celebration in Rabongla stood as a profound reminder of the strength found in unity, the healing power of compassion, and the enduring spiritual bond between peoples of shared heritage.