Bridge over troubled water

Onlookers watch from a distance as massive waves lash pillars of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link.

From Tibet’s old friends in Mumbai

A moment from a previous celebration in Mumbai

The 14th Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday on July 6 might be his most discussed one, given the announcement of his succession plan. But for the Friends of Tibet (FOT) community here in Mumbai, there will be celebrations as usual to mark World Tibet Day, which coincides with the spiritual leader’s birthday. Kundun (1997), Martin Scorsese’s lesser-known film documenting the leader’s life, will be screened at a Bandra venue. “For the longest time, I thought the Dalai Lama and I wouldn’t see eye to eye. FOT advocates for complete independence of Tibet, whereas he is known for the Middle Way Approach. However, after multiple meetings with him in Kochi, Dharamshala and Mumbai, I’ve come to realise that we always had his support. ‘You must continue the work for Tibet. Not everyone needs to align with my approach,’ he continues to assure us,” shared founder Sethu Das. Among familiar faces discussing the spiritual leader’s life this Sunday will be author Kamlesh Tripathi, and veteran actor Dolly Thakore, a long-time ally. Those keen to learn more, can log on to friendsoftibet.org.