July 4, 2026, Dehradun: The 108 Peace Institute and Sidhi Foundation organised a talk on ‘The Dalai Lama at 91: Lifelong Legacies’ at the Doon Library & Research Centre. Mr. Choekyong Wangchuk, a former minister of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), delivered the keynote address. The event was attended by more than 80 participants, ranging from retired IAS officers to social workers from across Dehradun.
The opening remarks were delivered by Shri Bablaji, an environmentalist, who spoke about the social cohesion of the Tibetan community in Dehradun. He remarked that he had never come across any conflicts among Tibetans and noted that the Tibetan community embodies the values of compassion and love.
Shri Inderpal Singh Kohli Ji then spoke about his deep reverence for His Holiness the Dalai Lama by recounting an occasion when he had the honour of meeting His Holiness in Dharamshala. He fondly recalled the audience and shared how he had the privilege of presenting a special shawl to His Holiness during the meeting.
Col. Ajay Kothiyal Ji spoke emotionally about the supreme sacrifice of the martyr Logha Rangzen, who self-immolated in front of the United Nations Headquarters on July 2. He urged the audience to draw inspiration from the martyr’s selfless sacrifice.
The keynote speaker, Mr. Choekyong Wangchuk, eloquently explained the Four Commitments of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Hindi.
He stated that the first commitment of His Holiness the Dalai Lama is to encourage all eight billion people on the planet to cultivate the values of compassion, love, and kindness. Since all living beings seek happiness and wish to avoid suffering, he said, humanity must strive to promote a peaceful environment.
The second commitment is to promote religious harmony in order to reduce problems arising from religious discrimination.
The third commitment is to preserve Tibetan culture and language. Mr. Wangchuk also highlighted His Holiness’s emphasis on the importance of protecting Tibet’s environment.
The fourth commitment is to revive ancient Indian wisdom, particularly the Nalanda Buddhist tradition.
Following the keynote address, Mr. Choekyong Wangchuk engaged in an interactive Q&A session with the audience. The event was attended by representatives from Tibetan settlements in and around Dehradun.
At the conclusion of the talk, Mr. Choekyong Wangchuk presented copies of ‘Voice for the Voiceless’ to Shri Bablaji, Shri Inderpal Singh Kohli Ji, and Col. Ajay Kothiyal Ji as souvenirs on behalf of the 108 Peace Institute.
