Thousands of monks and worshippers gathered in Kalachakra Ground in Bodhgaya, Bihar on Monday to listen to an address by the Dalai Lama during a ceremony offering prayers for a long life for the Buddhist leader.

Footage shows monks in traditional robes alongside scores of worshippers holding prayers during the 'Long Life Ceremony' and listening to an address by the Dalai Lama.

"The real message at this time of conflict in the world was that we must develop the peace within ourselves; that we have it in our hands. And all of these teachings are around the message of [that] you have to be your own master," said Nicole from New Zealand.

Another visitor, Daria, said that she came to Bodhgaya for the first time to see the Dalai Lama, highlighting his role in advocating for peace worldwide.

In a New Year's message, the Dalai Lama called on people to cultivate peace within themselves and urged compassion in order to leave behind a 'century of violence' and 'make this century the century of dialogue.'

Held as part of the Geluk Great Prayer Festival, the Geluk International Foundation representing the entire Geluk Tradition conducted prayers for the enduring health and longevity of the Dalai Lama.

The Long Life Ceremony was reportedly attended by more than 16,000 monks and nuns, including many from the Himalayan regions and attracted large crowds of worshippers.