The Dalai Lama, center, with Abe Kunin, left, and Junelle Kunin. (Ven. Tenzin Jamphel/Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama via AP)

Inner World, the Dalai Lama’s first album is set to be released on July 6, his 85th birthday. The 11-track project, featuring teachings and mantras by the Da­lai Lama set to music, was re­leased in conjunction with a companion booklet.

“The entire purpose of this project is to try to help people,” said Junelle Kunin, a New Zealand Buddhist who first had the idea for the album. “It’s not a Buddhist project, it’s to help everyday people like myself, even though I am Buddhist. The messages couldn’t be more poignant for our current social climate and needs as humanity.”

Net proceeds from the sales of the album will benefit Mind and Life Insti­tute as well as Social, Emotional and Ethical Learning, an international education program developed by Emory Univer­sity and the Dalai Lama.

Grammy-nominated sitar player Anoushka Shankar makes a guest appearance on the album, playing on “Ama La,” a track honoring mothers. Shankar said being invited to perform on the album was “a huge honor.”

Dozens of other musicians were invited to help with the project. —Associated Press