Dharamshala, the headquarters of Tibetan Buddhism and its government-in-exile, is currently witnessing vibrant celebrations leading up to the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday on July 6th. The festivities have drawn pilgrims, monks, nuns, tourists, and dignitaries from across the globe. The celebrations commenced on June 30th with a grand ceremony at the Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamshala.

The Dalai Lama himself attended the celebration, where he reflected on his life's work towards the welfare of the Tibetan people, the preservation of Dharma, and the happiness of all. He stated his commitment to dedicating the rest of his life to the well-being of all mankind and that there would be a structured framework for his succession. Around 8,000 people were estimated to have attended the event at the temple and overflow locations. Spiritual leaders from various Buddhist sects, representatives of other religious traditions, leaders of the Central Tibetan Administration, administrative staff, and members of monastic communities were also present. During the ceremony, organizers presented the Dalai Lama with the "Peerless Teacher of the 21st Century" award, lauding his service. A ceremonial long-life offering was also performed, wishing the spiritual leader continued good health.

Adding to the significance of the occasion, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju is representing the Indian government at the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday celebrations in Dharamshala.

In related news, a controversy has emerged regarding the Dalai Lama's succession. On Wednesday, the Dalai Lama reaffirmed that a trust created by him holds the sole authority to recognize his future reincarnation as the head of Tibetan Buddhism. Rijiju supported the Dalai Lama's assertion that the decision on his reincarnation would be made by the established institution and the leader of Tibetan Buddhists himself, excluding any external interference. This sparked a response from China, with the Chinese Foreign Ministry urging India to be cautious on Tibet-related issues. China maintains that the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama must comply with Chinese regulations and receive their approval. They insist that the selection process must involve a "Golden Urn lottery procedure" and approval from the central government.

In response to the controversy, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has stated that the government does not take any position on matters of faith and religion. Rijiju clarified that his remarks were made in a personal capacity as a follower of the Dalai Lama and not on behalf of the Indian government. He emphasized that followers of the Dalai Lama wish for him to decide on his reincarnation.

Despite the political complexities, the focus remains on celebrating the Dalai Lama's milestone birthday. The festivities include a series of ceremonies, high-level meetings of spiritual heads from major Buddhist sects, and a "Year of Compassion" event series with programs scheduled across the globe. The celebrations in Dharamshala reflect the deep reverence for the Dalai Lama and his enduring influence on Tibetan Buddhism and the world.