Celebrating the 90th Birthday of the 14th Dalai Lama Amidst Controversy
A Joyous Celebration in Dharamshala
The 90th birthday of the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, was celebrated with great enthusiasm at the main courtyard of the Dalai Lama Temple, 'Tsuglagkhang', in Dharamshala. The event saw participation from various representatives of Tibetan Buddhism, school children, dancers and singers from different countries, along with Buddhist followers from around the globe. Numerous leaders from both domestic and international backgrounds also attended, praising the Dalai Lama's commitment to global peace and religious harmony.
Dalai Lama Expresses Gratitude
During the birthday festivities, the Dalai Lama expressed his gratitude while seated in front of a large cake, stating that it is the love of the people that inspires him to continue serving all beings. He remarked, 'Thus, I reflect on the Bodhisattva path of Shantideva, considering all beings as my relatives and friends, and I always think about serving everyone to the best of my ability. I thank you all for coming here with such joy on this special occasion.'
China's Controversial Statement
Amid the celebrations, Chinese Ambassador to India, Zhu Feihong, reiterated on Saturday that the Dalai Lama has no authority to decide whether the tradition of reincarnation will continue or cease. This statement comes amidst ongoing disputes between China and supporters of the Dalai Lama regarding the next Dalai Lama. Speculations suggest that the tradition itself may be abolished.
The ambassador referenced a centuries-old tradition, stating that the practice of reincarnation of the 'Living Buddha' has been ongoing for over 700 years, with the 14th Dalai Lama being part of this long-standing lineage. In a message on social media, he noted, 'The 14th Dalai Lama has confirmed that the institution of the Dalai Lama will persist. In fact, as a unique succession method of Tibetan Buddhism, the practice of Living Buddha reincarnation has continued for over 700 years. Currently, there are over 1,000 reincarnation systems for Living Buddhas in regions with Tibetan populations, including Tibet and parts of Sichuan, Yunnan, Gansu, and Qinghai.'
The Succession Controversy
Dharamshala has been the residence of the Dalai Lama since 1959, following his escape from Tibet after a failed uprising against Chinese rule. Since then, he has maintained aspirations for greater autonomy for Tibet under the Chinese Communist Party and has organized Tibetans both within and outside China.
The Nobel Peace Prize laureate has also stated that the next Dalai Lama should be identified according to previous Buddhist traditions, with his office leading this search. He has previously mentioned that his successor would be born in a 'free world', implying outside of China.
This week, the Dalai Lama informed his followers that the sole authority to recognize his reincarnation lies with his non-profit organization, the Gaden Phodrang Trust. However, China regards the Dalai Lama as a separatist and insists that only Beijing has the right to approve his successor. Furthermore, China has stated that it will reject any individual chosen without its consent. According to a spokesperson, Mao Ning, Tibetan Buddhism is a 'religion with Chinese characteristics' and the reincarnation process should adhere to traditional methods, including 'drawing lots from a golden urn.'
Social Media Insights
Facts You Must Know about #DalaiLama Reincarnation:
— Xu Feihong (@China_Amb_India) July 6, 2025
The 14th Dalai Lama has affirmed that the institution of the Dalai Lama will continue. In fact, as a unique succession method of Tibetan Buddhism, the practice of Living Buddha reincarnation has continued over 700 years.… pic.twitter.com/kYgj2LXLub