His Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, was born on July 6, 1935 in northeastern Tibet to a small farming family. When he was just two years old, he was recognized as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama, Thubten Gyatso.

Celebrating his 75th birthday, Tuesday, July 6, in northern India (where he’s been exiled from Tibet since 1959,) the Dalai Lama told the Associated Press, “Even at this age, I find time for my Buddhist studies that give me strength, peace, happiness and keep me in good health.”

He began his 75th birthday with an early morning prayer ceremony in Dharmsala, and then entered into the street to greet and welcome well-wishers. During celebration ceremonies, he stood before those in attendance and spoke briefly before dancers and performers entertained all who came to celebrate. He was offered gifts and traditional white scarves from his followers.

The Dalai Lama is the spiritual and temporal leader of the Tibetan people, but difficulty with China during the last sixty-one years has kept His Holiness in exile. Despite his exile, His Holiness continues to spread peace, love, strength, human happiness and hope throughout the world.

If you’re not familiar with Buddhist philosophy, or the Dalai Lama, July 6 is the perfect day to step back and reflect on the life and teachings of both the Buddha and His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

To learn more about the 14th Dalai Lama, visit his official website and don’t forget to wish him a Happy Birthday on Twitter!