Dharamshala: On the auspicious day of 11 June 2025, the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives (LTWA) commemorates the 55th anniversary of its founding and the laying of its foundation stone, graciously blessed by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama on Thursday, 11 June 1970. It is regarded as one of the most significant libraries and institutions for Tibetan works in exile. It plays an important role in the archiving, digitising, and printing of Tibetan scripts and many other works.
The 55th anniversary was graced by the Chief Guest, Sikyong Penpa Tsering of the Central Tibetan Administration, and the Special Chief Guest Speaker, Khenpo Sonam Tenphel.
The leadership of the Central Tibetan Administration, including Chief Justice Commissioner of the Tibetan Supreme Justice Commission (TSJC), Yeshi Wangmo, Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang, Kalon (Minister) Dolma Gyari of the Department of Security, Tibetan Justice Commissioner Dawa Phunkyi, Election Commissioner Lobsang Yeshi, Public Service Commissioner Karma Yeshi, Auditor General Tashi Topgyal, several members of the 17th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, along with secretaries, both current and former staffs of LTWA, attended the 55th anniversary celebration of the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives held at Sikyong Hall in Gangchen Kyishong.
Distinguished guests also include 11th Kriti Rinpoche, Lobsang Tenzin Jigme Yeshe Gyamtso Rinpoche, secretaries from the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and the head of Tibetan NGO’s.
The ceremony began with the lighting of the traditional butter lamp by the Chief Guest and Special Guest, followed by a welcome address by the LTWA Director, Geshe Lhakdor. In his address, he briefly overviewed the Library’s 55-year journey and its founding purpose.
He noted that the primary objectives of LTWA is to serve as a valuable source of Tibetan cultural knowledge while promoting an academic environment that encourages research and learning between scholars and students. He highlighted that such efforts remain especially important in today’s world, where political and spiritual uncertainties continue to challenge communities across the globe.
The event featured a video presentation of the LTWA Director and staff audience with His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, followed by a video message from Kyabje Samdhong Rinpoche.
Later in the program, former LTWA staff members Lobsang Shastri and Prof. Jampa Samten delivered speeches, sharing personal insights, work experiences, and reflections on the Library’s vital role in preserving and promoting Tibetan heritage. They highlighted the enduring legacy of the institutions and their impact on both the Tibetan community and global academic circles.
In their respective addresses, the Special Guest and Chief Guest reflected on the Library’s founding vision and its vital role over the past five and a half decades in preserving, Four Noble Truths of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, digitising valuable manuscripts, and promoting Tibetan religion, culture, and historical knowledge since its establishment.
Foremost, special guest Khenpo Sonam Tenphel addressed the attendees of the 55th anniversary of LTWA. Addressing the gathering, the Speaker extended his heartfelt congratulations on the 55th anniversary of the LTWA and commended its remarkable contributions to preserving and promoting Tibet’s unique language and culture, particularly its invaluable role in both the religious and secular spheres of Tibetan life.
Followed by the chief guest of the event, Sikyong Penpa Tsering, addressed the attendees. Sikyong addressed an overview of LTWA’s history and its achievements in the preservation of Tibetan texts, ancient manuscripts, artefacts and other aspects of Tibetan cultural heritage.
When Communist China took over Tibet in 1959, it put Tibetan culture in great danger. Many schools, ancient writings, artefacts, and other parts of Tibetan heritage were either stolen or destroyed in the name of modernisation. Seeing this serious threat, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama started the Library of Tibetan Works & Archives to preserve, protect, and promote Tibetan culture.
He further highlights that when His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama first arrived at exile India and outside foreign country, he didn’t spoke of Tibet’s struggle and exile rather, His Holiness emphasised on human values, empathy and being compassion where people around the world started to get more interest in Tibetans Buddhism and culture. Gradually, foreigners and politicians started to support the cause of Tibet and the Tibetan struggle.
On a related note, Sikyong strengthened the significance of the upcoming Year of Compassion- celebrating the 90th birthday (Ghoton) of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and briefly highlighted the importance of His Holiness’s Four Commitments, emphasising its enduring relevance and inspiration to the Tibetan community and the wider world.
Sikyong Penpa Tsering, in his closing address, acknowledged the sacrifices, dedication and expressed deep gratitude to the elder generation. He added, “Even if we can’t move forward, it is our responsibility to safeguard what we have.” He further emphasised the significance of LTWA as a key institution in preserving Tibetan language and cultural heritage.
The event concluded with closing remarks and a vote of thanks delivered by Ngawang Yeshi, General Secretary of LTWA, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to all the guests, former staff, and supporters of the Library. He acknowledged their continued support and contributions in upholding the institution’s mission of preserving Tibetan knowledge and heritage.
Recitation of Auspicious Prayers by LTWA Sanghas on the 55th Anniversary of LTWA.
LTWA Director Geshe Lhakdor delivers an address, offering a brief overview of the Library’s 55-year journey and its founding mission.
The leadership of the Central Tibetan Administration graced the event with their presence.
The 11th Kriti Rinpoche, Lobsang Tenzin Jigme Yeshe Gyamtso, addresses the gathering as a distinguished guest.
Former LTWA staff member Lobsang Shastri addresses the gathering, sharing reflections on the importance of Tibetan responsibility in upholding the Library’s cultural legacy.
Former LTWA staff member Prof. Jampa Samten addresses the gathering, reflecting on his experiences and the Library’s enduring contribution to Tibetan heritage.
The leadership of the Central Tibetan Administration graced the event with their presence.
The 55th anniversary was graced by Special Chief Guest Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel.
The leadership of the Central Tibetan Administration and several members of the 17th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile graced the event with their presence.
Screening of the LTWA history and overview video.
The event featured the presentation of recognition awards to retired and current staff members with over 20 years of dedicated service.
The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives (LTWA) commemorates the 55th anniversary of its founding and the laying of its foundation stone, which was graciously blessed by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama on Thursday, 11 June 1970.
