Remembering the 248th US Independence Day

  • Significance: The 4th of July, widely known as the US Independence Day, demarcates the USA's declaration of sovereignty in 1776. The nation recently celebrated its 248th anniversary on the 4th of July, 2024.
  • Journey to Independence: The historical event marked the severance of 13 American colonies from Great Britain.
  • Precursor to Independence: The quest for independence initiated in 1775 with the colonies striving for self-governance, reckoning with unpopular British policies.
  • Declaration and Approval: The colonies heralded independence on the 2nd of July, 1776, two days prior to the approval of the Declaration of Independence.
  • Causes: The primary sparks included British-imposed trade restrictions, an embargo on

westward expansion, lack of representation in the British Parliament, and the stringent Coercive Acts. These factors cumulatively fuelled the legendary American Revolutionary War.

 

Dalai Lama Turns 89

Commemorating the 89th Birthday of the Dalai Lama

  • Significance: The 89th birthday of Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th and current Dalai Lama, was recently celebrated, marking another milestone in the venerable life of the Buddhist spiritual leader.
  • The Dalai Lama Lineage: Dalai Lama is a title given to the spiritual leaders of the Tibetan people who belong to the Gelugpa tradition, the most substantial and influential sect in Tibetan Buddhism.
  • Lineage History: A total of 14 spiritual leaders have served under this title in the history of Tibetan Buddhism, with the first two being bestowed this honour posthumously.
  • Spiritual Belief: The Dalai Lama is revered as a manifestation of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion and the patron saint of Tibet. Bodhisattvas are enlightened beings committed to achieving Buddhahood for the welfare of humanity.
  • The 14th Dalai Lama: Tenzin Gyatso, the current Dalai Lama, had to leave Tibet along with numerous followers during the Tibetan uprising in 1959. Since then, he has been residing in India.