DHARAMSHALA, SEPTEMBER 4: Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama returned to his official residence in Dharamshala on Friday morning after spending more than two months in Ladakh, where he participated in a series of religious and public programmes.
The Dalai Lama arrived at Kangra’s Gaggal airport, where senior Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) officials, including Tibetan Chief Justice Commissioner Yeshi Wangmo, Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang and officiating Sikyong Tsegyal Chukya Dranyi, received him.
Thousands of Tibetans, devotees and well-wishers gathered along the route from the airport to McLeod Ganj to welcome the spiritual leader.
Traditional Tashi Sholpa dancers performed at the airport as he emerged from the terminal, while people gathered at various points along the route carrying flowers, incense and traditional white scarves.
Members of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, senior CTA officials, monks and devotees also assembled at the Thekchen Choeling Tsuglagkhang and outside his residence in McLeod Ganj.
The Dalai Lama had left Dharamshala for Ladakh on June 28 and remained there for over two months, delivering teachings and attending several religious and public events.
During his Ladakh visit, he celebrated his 91st birthday, participated in prayer ceremonies and attended the concluding session of the Yarchos Chenmo, or Great Summer Debate, at Matho.
His return to Dharamshala follows his earlier stay in New Delhi, where he underwent left knee replacement surgery on June 8 and remained during the initial phase of his recovery.
The Central Tibetan Administration said the spiritual leader had safely returned to Dharamshala after successfully completing his Ladakh programme.
His arrival has brought renewed activity to Dharamshala, the headquarters of the Tibetan exile administration, with devotees and followers gathering to welcome him back after his extended stay in Ladakh.
