Dharamsala, Nov 11 : Several Russian and Mongolian Buddhists prayed for Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama's long life on the concluding day of a Buddhist festival in Dharamsala.

Over 700 Russian and Mongolian Buddhists took part in the special festival being celebrated by them for the first time in India.

"It's always a blessing and honour to be part of any celebration especially this celebration, which is done for the first time in history ever and over 700 Russians and Mongolians came from all over the world," said Irana, a Russian Buddhist who came from America to take part in the ceremony.

Polina, another Russian Buddhist, offered her gratitude to India for keeping the Tibetan culture alive.

"Of course, we are very happy to be here and we are overfilled with positive emotions and we are expressing our gratitude for Indian people that you help our Holiness and Tibetan people have found comfort to live here and hold their activities," she said.

On Friday, the Dalai Lama gave his first religious discourse after being honoured with the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal.

The Dalai Lama, has been living in exile in the country since fleeing his predominantly Buddhist homeland in 1959. (ANI)