Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama on Saturday dismissed growing speculation over the announcement of his successor, saying he has no immediate plans to do so and hopes to live for another 30 to 40 years to continue serving humanity.
“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,” the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, said during a long-life prayer ceremony at the Tsuglagkhang Temple in McLeodganj, ahead of his 90th birthday.
No Succession Yet
The statement comes amid speculation, especially from Chinese authorities and within Tibetan communities, over the question of reincarnation and succession planning for the revered Nobel Peace Prize laureate. China has claimed the right to approve any successor, a position strongly opposed by the Tibetan religious leadership in exile.
“Your prayers have borne fruit so far,” the Dalai Lama told his followers. “Though we have lost our country and are living in exile in India, that’s where I have been able to benefit beings quite a lot.”
Living in Exile, Serving Globally
Since fleeing Tibet in 1959 after a failed uprising against Chinese rule, the Dalai Lama has lived in exile in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. There, he established the Tibetan government-in-exile and continued to advocate for peace, compassion, and autonomy for Tibetans.
He emphasized that his purpose remains unchanged:
“I intend to benefit and serve beings as much as I can.”
A Symbol of Hope for Tibetans
At 89, the Dalai Lama remains a global symbol of non-violence, spiritual resilience, and human rights advocacy. His remarks are seen as a reassuring message to Tibetans and his global followers, signalling that any decision about succession will be deliberate, spiritually guided, and not influenced by political pressures.
His 90th birthday celebrations on Sunday, July 6, are expected to draw well-wishers from around the world, marking six decades of his life in exile and a continued journey of spiritual leadership.
Conclusion:
While the world watches closely for succession plans, the Dalai Lama’s message is clear: his mission of compassion continues, and decisions about the future will come in his own time, not dictated by politics or pressure.