Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibet, who will turn 90 this July 6, announced there will be a successor after he passes away and reaffirmed that the 600-year-old institution will continue.
“In particular, I have received messages through various channels from Tibetans in Tibet making the same appeal. In accordance with all these requests, I am affirming that the institution of the Dalai Lama will continue,” he said in a video broadcast at the start of a meeting of religious leaders in Himachal Pradesh’s Dharamshala where he has lived for decades.
A revered leader to millions of Buddhists around the globe, the Dalai Lama is seen as a symbol of non-violence, compassion and for his tireless campaign for Tibetan cultural identity under Chinese rule.
The 90th birthday celebrations of the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, who is also called Lhama Thondup, commenced at Tsuglagkhang, the main temple in Mcleodganj near Dharamshala on June 30.
Must take our approval: China
Strongly disapproving, China said the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama “must be approved by the central government.”
“The reincarnation of the Dalai Lama, the Panchen Lama and other great Buddhist figures must be chosen by drawing lots from a golden urn, and approved by the central government,” foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning.
“The Chinese government implements a policy of freedom of religious belief, but there are regulations on religious affairs and methods for managing the reincarnation of Tibetan living Buddhas,” Mao said.
Arunachal CM welcomes decision
Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Pema Khandu welcomed the Dalai Lama’s statement saying this decision brings immense joy and spiritual reassurance to millions across the Himalayan region and the world.
Khandu also said that the deep-rooted faith and reverence the people of the Himalayan region hold for the Dalai Lama institution remain unshakable, and this affirmation strengthens people’s shared commitment to the values of compassion, wisdom, and peace.
“Warmly welcoming the reaffirmation by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama on the continuation of the sacred institution of the Dalai Lama. This decision brings immense joy and spiritual reassurance to millions across the Himalayan region and the world,” he wrote on X.
Khandu said on behalf of the people of Arunachal Pradesh, especially the Monpa community and the entire Buddhist fraternity, he expresses community’s heartfelt gratitude to the Dalai Lama.
“We fully support the traditional Tibetan Buddhist process for the recognition of the next Dalai Lama as outlined under the guidance of the Gaden Phodrang.
“May His Holiness continue to bless us with his wisdom and presence for many more years to come,” he said.
