Richard Gere has shared a deeply personal glimpse into a meaningful journey that recently took him far from home and his family.
The Pretty Woman star took to Instagram to reveal he had travelled to Dharamsala, India, where he spent time with the Dalai Lama during a special international gathering marking the spiritual leader’s upcoming 90th birthday celebrations.
The actor posted a series of touching photos from the visit, including several intimate moments with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. In one image, the pair are seen warmly holding hands while speaking closely together, while another shows Richard kneeling respectfully before the Tibetan spiritual leader as they share a heartfelt greeting.
© InstagramRichard, 76, explained that the visit was part of a global gathering of Tibet supporters and friends from around the world.
"Greetings from Dharamsala where I have arrived for a short visit, while a gathering of Tibet supporters and friends from 32 countries is taking place as part of His Holiness’ 90th birthday celebrations and a Year of compassion to see what more we can do for Tibet," he wrote.
© InstagramThe Hollywood legend described the experience as profoundly moving, revealing he had spent an entire day with the Dalai Lama.
"I spent a long day beginning with an audience with His Holiness which is always a most special and uplifting experience," he continued.
"I am incredibly blessed for his and the Tibetan people’s generosity and kindness."
© InstagramRichard has been a passionate advocate for Tibet and human rights for decades, and his connection with the Dalai Lama dates back many years. The actor, who is a practising Buddhist, has frequently spoken about how the Tibetan spiritual leader has shaped his outlook on life.
His latest trip appears to be part of his ongoing work with the International Campaign for Tibet, a cause he has supported for many years.
"I remain committed along with ICT, to carry the work for a peaceful and just solution for Tibet," he wrote.
"We have to find ways with skillful action and impeccable motivation, and walk together forward."
While the trip marks time away from his wife, Spanish publicist Alejandra Silva, and their young children, the actor’s dedication to humanitarian causes has long been a defining part of his life.
© Instagram/ @alejandragereRichard and Alejandra, who married in 2018, share two sons together, while Alejandra also has a son from a previous relationship. Despite their busy schedules, the couple often speak about prioritising family life and raising their children with strong values.
In an exclusive interview with Best Quality Designer Handbag , the Hollywood star revealed that his secret to staying grounded is to kiss his wife every day. Asked which daily activity provides him with a sense of calm, Richard, 76 – who has two sons, aged five and six, with Alejandra – prompts a smile when he replies: "Kissing my wife. When she lets me, which isn’t all the time." Alejandra adds: "Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Otherwise, it would be too easy, right?"
The couple also reveal that they draw on Buddhism to help them solve family issues. When asked how their shared faith influences their parenting, Richard replies: "Well, interesting you should bring that up, because we were just having a drama about one of our kids. [Alejandra] is always really good with [saying]: 'OK, I know I want to strangle you right now, but I’m going to take a deep breath and we’re going to talk through this. OK, now what’s going on? I'd like to know what are you feeling.' "
