Dharamshala: With the Dalai Lama set to turn 90 this July 6, discussions surrounding the selection of his successor have intensified. Addressing the growing speculation, the 14th Dalai Lama issued a firm statement reaffirming that the next Dalai Lama will be chosen strictly in accordance with Tibetan Buddhist traditions. He clarified that China has no role in this spiritual process.
The Dalai Lama stated that the selection of his successor, a practice dating back nearly 600 years, will not be influenced by political agendas. He accused China of attempting to interfere by planning to install a successor who aligns with its interests, and cautioned against such conspiracies.
In a move to safeguard the spiritual process, the Dalai Lama has entrusted the authority to choose the 15th Dalai Lama to the Gaden Phodrang Trust. He also confirmed that the Dalai Lama Institute will continue to function in the future and uphold the selection process as per Tibetan traditions.
The announcement, made ahead of his milestone birthday, is being seen as a strong message to China. Born in 1935 in Taktser village, Tibet, Tenzin Gyatso was recognized as the 14th Dalai Lama in 1940. With his advancing age, the global Tibetan Buddhist community is closely watching the developments regarding the selection of his successor.