The 69th birthday of Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama was celebrated on Tuesday with thousands thronging the Buddha temple at Mcleodganj in Himachal Pradesh where the main function was held.

Addressing the function, prime minister of the Tibetan government-in-exile S Rinpoche said Dalai Lama, who has preached compassion, peace and tolerance, was the leader of not only the Tibetan people but the entire world.

The mood in Mcleodganj was upbeat with locals, Tibetans and foreigners attending the function, which started around 8:30am. Cultural programmes by school children and traditional dances were the highlights.

Rinpoche unfurled the Tibetan national flag and the Tibetan national anthem was also played. The life and mission of the Dalai Lama was highlighted in the ceremony.