Gangtok: Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama was extended a traditional welcome on his arrival here on Monday for a two-day trip to Sikkim.
At the helipad, Chief Minister PS Tamang and his wife Krishna R Tamang offered traditional khadas (scarves ) to the Dalai Lama. State Legislative Assembly Speaker Arun Upreti, Deputy Speaker Sangay Lepcha, and Cabinet Ministers, monks and religious heads were prominent among those who joined the ‘Chema’ traditional welcome ceremony. The visiting leader was given a guard of honour by the Sikkim Armed Police. All vehicular movement was stopped from 9 am to 1 pm.
Subsequently, on reaching the resort, the Dalai Lama was welcomed by Governor L P Acharya and the First Lady Kumud Devi. Governor expressed gratitude towards the Dalai Lama for his presence in Sikkim.
The Chief Minister, attired in Bakhu (Sikkimese-Tibetan costume) said,’ The presence of His Holiness brings a radiant light of wisdom, compassion, and peace to our land, enriching our hearts and minds with his profound teachings.”
Devotees, particularly Tibetans lined up on the roadside and waved at the Tibetan leader.
The Dalai Lama will be delivering Buddhist teaching at the Paljor Stadium.
