Dalai Lama dismisses succession buzz, vows to serve for 30-40 more years at 90

The Dalai Lama has quashed the rumours about his succession, vowing to serve people for another three to four decades. While speaking during a long-life prayer ceremony at Tsuglagkhang, the main Dalai Lama temple in McLeodganj, the Dalai Lama said Saturday (July 5) he felt reassured by divine signs.

“Looking at the many prophecies, I feel I have blessings of the Avalokiteshvara. I have done my best so far. I hope to still live for 30-40 years more. Your prayers have borne fruit so far,” the spiritual leader told the crowd on the eve of his 90th birthday.

Amid swirling speculation about the future of Tibetan spiritual leadership and China’s potential role in choosing his successor, the Dalai Lama remains steadfast.

Showing no signs of stepping back, he expressed deep gratitude for his life’s journey, despite the challenges of leading Tibetans in exile.

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“Though we have lost our country and we are living in exile in India, that’s where I have been able to benefit beings quite a lot. Those living here in Dharamshala. I intend to benefit and serve beings as much as I can,” he said.

As McLeodganj gears up for his 90th birthday celebrations, with dignitaries like Indian union minister Kiren Rijiju expected to attend, the Dalai Lama’s message highlighted his unwavering commitment to his spiritual mission and his determination to continue guiding his followers for years to come.

Earlier on Wednesday, the 14th Dalai Lama stated that the centuries-old institution of the Dalai Lama would continue and that the Gaden Phodrang Trust– a non-profit body set up by his office in 2011– would have the “sole authority” to recognise his reincarnation.

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China responded swiftly and critically. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning reiterated Beijing’s long-standing position that any reincarnation of the Tibetan spiritual leader must comply with what it calls “domestic recognition” and receive official approval.

Despite China’s criticism, India has backed the traditional process for selecting the next Dalai Lama.

“Reincarnation has to be decided by the established conventions and the desire of the present Dalai Lama. No one else has the right to decide on the next Dalai Lama. It is the most important defining institution for all the Tibetans and all those who follow the Nalanda tradition of Buddhism,” Rijiju said.