On the eve of his 90th birthday, the Dalai Lama has expressed his hope to live well beyond his previous predictions, now aiming for 130 years or more. This statement, made during a prayer ceremony organized by followers in Dharamsala, India, precedes his 90th birthday and comes amidst ongoing discussions about his succession.
Speaking to followers gathered in Dharamsala, where he has lived in exile since fleeing Tibet in 1959, the Dalai Lama conveyed his determination to continue serving sentient beings and the Buddhadharma, the teachings of Buddhism. He stated that he has been able to serve the Buddhadharma and the people of Tibet quite well, and hopes to continue to do so for another 30 to 40 years. His remarks were met with applause and cheers.
This declaration follows the Dalai Lama's earlier statement in December, where he suggested he might live to 110 years old. The significant increase in his projected lifespan has sparked both excitement and contemplation among his followers.
Concerns about the Dalai Lama's health have been present, particularly after he underwent knee surgery in New York in June 2024. However, he has since reassured his followers, stating that he feels physically fit and that his knee is improving. Despite his age, he has resumed meeting with hundreds of visitors weekly, demonstrating his continued dedication.
The question of the Dalai Lama's succession remains a sensitive and complex issue. He has asserted that he will reincarnate and that his office, the Gaden Phodrang Trust, will be responsible for identifying his successor, defying China's insistence on choosing the next Dalai Lama. China maintains that the reincarnation must be approved by the Chinese regime and occur within China, adhering to Chinese laws and regulations. This stance has created friction between India and China. The Dalai Lama's recent statements reaffirm the continuation of the 600-year-old Buddhist institution and clarify the process of recognizing future reincarnations, aiming to prevent external interference.
