Itanagar: It comes as significant news from the Northeastern frontier as Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has thrown his unequivocal support behind the conferment of India’s highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, upon the revered Tibetan spiritual leader, the 14th Dalai Lama. Khandu, in an exclusive interaction with PTI Videos, asserted that such a recognition would be a fitting tribute to His Holiness’s profound and sustained contributions to India’s venerable Nalanda tradition and his tireless efforts in safeguarding Tibetan Buddhism.
The Chief Minister confirmed his intention to formally communicate his recommendation to the central government in due course, underscoring the Dalai Lama’s pivotal role in preserving and propagating the ancient Nalanda tradition, a heritage that originated from Indian soil. His remarks lend further weight to the ongoing discourse among a section of parliamentarians advocating for this prestigious award for the Tibetan leader. Khandu lauded the Dalai Lama for his instrumental work in revitalising Indian-origin Buddhist traditions across the vast expanse of the Himalayan belt, stretching from Ladakh right up to Arunachal Pradesh. He highlighted how, in the aftermath of the 1959 Chinese invasion of Tibet, the Dalai Lama meticulously brought with him the very essence of Tibetan Buddhism to India. This led to the establishment of pivotal monastic centres, particularly in the southern parts of the country, which have since blossomed into vital learning hubs for countless monks hailing from the Indian Himalayan region.
Drawing a historical parallel, Khandu explained, “From the 8th century, Nalanda scholars carried Indian Buddhism to Tibet. Tibetan Buddhism emerged as a fusion of India’s Nalanda teachings and Tibet’s Bon religion. Today, the Dalai Lama is a living embodiment of that heritage.”
When pressed on China’s contentious claims regarding the selection of the next Dalai Lama, the Chief Minister emphatically dismissed Beijing’s assertions. He stated firmly that “China has no locus standi,” stressing that Tibetan Buddhism is not even practiced in mainland China. He reiterated that the revered institution of the Dalai Lama is deeply rooted in the spiritual fabric of the Tibetan and Himalayan Buddhist communities, and not in the realm of Beijing’s political machinations.
Reflecting on the recent 90th birthday celebrations of the Dalai Lama in Dharamshala on July 6, Khandu described the event as “historic,” noting the widespread participation from across India and indeed the world, including a notable presence of diplomats and foreign guests. He further added that despite his advanced age and a recent knee surgery, the Dalai Lama remains remarkably mentally agile and continues to serve as an immense source of inspiration to millions globally.
Addressing the perennial question of succession, Khandu informed that the Gaden Phodrang Trust would be entrusted with the solemn responsibility of identifying the next Dalai Lama. He clarified that this centuries-old tradition would commence only after the passing of the current Dalai Lama, assuring that there is “no urgency.” He emphasised that the process would strictly adhere to established religious protocols, even acknowledging the possibility of a female Dalai Lama, a speculation that has been openly considered.
Khandu’s vocal support now adds to a burgeoning chorus, both within India and internationally, advocating for the Bharat Ratna to be bestowed upon the Dalai Lama, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate who has resided in exile in India since 1959. It is pertinent to note that Mother Teresa, Abdul Ghaffar Khan, and Nelson Mandela are the three foreign-born individuals who have previously been accorded this distinguished honour.
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