My Heart Is With You: Dalai Lama’s Deep Bond with Himachal Amid Monsoon Tragedy

In the wake of devastating floods and landslides that have ravaged Himachal Pradesh, His Holiness the Dalai Lama has reached out with heartfelt compassion and unwavering solidarity. The Tibetan spiritual leader, who has called Dharamshala home for over six decades, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and widespread destruction caused by the relentless monsoon.

In a personal letter to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the Dalai Lama conveyed his condolences to grieving families and those affected by the disaster. “I offer my prayers and condolences to you, to the families who have lost loved ones, and to everyone affected by this natural disaster,” he wrote, acknowledging the pain and resilience of the people.

As a gesture of support, the Dalai Lama Trust will contribute financially to aid ongoing relief and rehabilitation efforts. “I am aware that the State Government and all concerned agencies are engaged in urgent relief and rehabilitation work. As a token of my solidarity with the people of the state, I have asked the Dalai Lama Trust to make a contribution,” he added.

The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) confirmed the gesture, noting that His Holiness referred to the Chief Minister as “my Chief Minister,” a phrase that reflects his deep emotional connection with the state. “Dharamshala has been my home for more than 65 years. I deeply appreciate the friendship and hospitality that people from all walks of society in Himachal Pradesh have shown me and my fellow Tibetans,” he said.

Tibetan settlements in McLeodganj, Kullu, and Kasumpti were among the worst-hit areas. Monasteries and residential colonies in Dobhi Palrabling and Manali Dekyiling suffered extensive damage. Thankfully, timely evacuations prevented loss of life, though property damage was described as “colossal.”

To address urgent needs, the CTA has already disbursed ₹4 lakh (USD 48,000) in emergency relief funds for affected families in Kullu.

Closing his message, the Dalai Lama offered prayers for the swift recovery of Himachal Pradesh and its people, reaffirming the spiritual and cultural bond he shares with the region—a bond forged over decades of shared history, hospitality, and hope.