Dalai Lama. Photo Credit: aljazeera
On the eve of his 90th birthday, the Dalai Lama expressed a heartfelt and surprising wish — to live another 40 years. According to Al Jazeera, addressing thousands of followers at a long-life prayer ceremony in Dharamshala, the Tibetan spiritual leader radiated optimism, reaffirming his deep sense of spiritual duty and connection to the global Buddhist community.
The event, held at the Tsuglagkhang temple complex in Himachal Pradesh, was part of a two-day prayer service attended by religious leaders, monks, nuns, Tibetan parliamentarians, and followers from across the world. Amid chants and offerings, the Dalai Lama said, “With your collective prayers and unwavering faith, I believe I can live up to the age of 110 or even 130.”
Spiritual Strength and Global Reverence
The Dalai Lama, known globally as a symbol of peace, compassion, and resilience, remains physically and mentally active despite his advanced age. His recent public appearances have been marked by clarity of thought and trademark humour, reinforcing the belief among his followers that he still has many years of service left.
The Tibetan leader attributed his longevity to the blessings of Avalokiteshvara — the Bodhisattva of Compassion — and the energy he draws from the goodwill of the Tibetan people and his global supporters. He reassured devotees that he was in good health and had no immediate plans to reduce his public engagements.
Reaffirming Succession Control
One of the key moments during his address was the clarification around his succession. The Dalai Lama reiterated that the responsibility of finding his reincarnation would rest solely with the Gaden Phodrang Trust — an institution under his control — and not with any external political power.
This statement comes amid ongoing tensions between the Tibetan spiritual establishment and China. Beijing has repeatedly claimed the right to name the next Dalai Lama, citing historical precedent. The Tibetan leader, however, has firmly opposed any political interference in this sacred process, arguing that reincarnation is a religious matter that should remain within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.
Political Sensitivities and Global Attention
The Chinese government’s continued assertion over the Dalai Lama’s succession has become a flashpoint in India-China relations. New Delhi, while hosting the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan exile community, has often walked a diplomatic tightrope. Recently, Beijing warned India against supporting what it calls “separatist activities,” reflecting ongoing friction over the Tibet issue.
Despite geopolitical concerns, the Dalai Lama remains a unifying figure for Tibetans in exile and a source of spiritual inspiration for millions worldwide. His recent remarks are seen not only as a reaffirmation of faith but also as a subtle assertion of autonomy in the face of political pressure.
A Lifetime of Service
Born in 1935 in the Tibetan province of Amdo, the 14th Dalai Lama was enthroned at a young age and fled to India in 1959 after a failed uprising against Chinese rule. Since then, he has lived in exile, advocating for the cultural and religious rights of Tibetans, while promoting messages of peace, nonviolence, and compassion across the world.
Over the decades, he has received numerous global accolades, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989. His leadership has not only kept the Tibetan issue alive on the international stage but also brought Buddhist philosophy into global conversations on ethics and happiness.
A Message of Hope at 90
The Dalai Lama’s wish to live another 40 years is both symbolic and spiritual. It reflects his unwavering belief in the path of compassion and the continuation of his teachings. As the Tibetan community and global followers prepare to celebrate his 90th birthday, his message serves as a powerful reminder — of resilience, purpose, and the enduring relevance of spiritual leadership in today’s divided world.
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