Dalai Lama Dismisses Successor Rumors, Aims for Longevity

Dalai Lama's Aspirations for the Future

Dharamshala: On Saturday, the Dalai Lama addressed speculation regarding his successor, expressing his desire to continue serving for another 30 to 40 years.

During a long life prayer ceremony at Tsuglagkhang, the main temple in McLeodganj, Tenzin Gyatso shared that he feels the blessings of Avalokiteshvara guiding him.

"I sense the blessings of Avalokiteshvara through various prophecies. I have done my utmost so far and hope to live for another 30-40 years. Your prayers have been effective," stated the Tibetan spiritual leader.

He reflected on his childhood connection with Avalokiteshvara, emphasizing his commitment to serving the Buddha dharma and the Tibetan people.

"I aspire to live beyond 130 years," he added.

To commemorate the 14th Dalai Lama's upcoming 90th birthday, the Tibetan government-in-exile has organized a week of celebrations.

The long life prayer ceremony attracted over 15,000 attendees, including devotees and representatives from various Tibetan Buddhist sects, as noted by Tenzin Lekshay, spokesperson for the Central Tibetan Administration.

Despite the challenges faced by Tibetans in exile, the Dalai Lama expressed his intention to continue benefiting those in Dharamshala.

"I aim to serve and support beings as much as possible," he remarked.

He also recounted his encounter with Chinese leader Mao Zedong, who once claimed that "Religion is poison," to which the Dalai Lama chose not to respond, instead feeling compassion.

He acknowledged that Buddhist teachings recognize diverse mental dispositions, yet all beings, regardless of belief, seek happiness and wish to avoid suffering.

"We all desire happiness and wish to alleviate suffering, so we must engage in actions that promote happiness for others," he stated.

Rumors regarding the announcement of his successor have circulated in the lead-up to his 90th birthday, but these have been dismissed amid rising tensions with China.

Penpa Tsering, president of the Central Tibetan Administration, clarified, "It doesn’t happen like that. His Holiness intends to live for another 20 years. We must understand the tradition. Many came expecting an announcement, but it doesn’t work that way."

The celebrations on Sunday will see attendance from cabinet ministers, including Kiren Rijiju, along with Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, and Hollywood actor Richard Gere.