Dalai Lama Celebrates Milestone 90th Birthday Amid Festivities and Reflections

Thousands of devotees honored the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday, reflecting on his life, legacy, and the future of Tibetan Buddhism amid ongoing political tensions.

Thousands of Tibetan Buddhists gathered in the Indian town of Dharamshala to celebrate the 90th birthday of the Dalai Lama, enduring torrential monsoon rains. Dressed in his traditional robes, the revered spiritual leader was seen smiling while being accompanied by two monks. Despite the weather, the hilltop temples reverberated with chants of devotion, complemented by performances from local dance troupes ringing with cymbals and bagpipes.

Among the attendees was Hollywood actor Richard Gere, a longtime supporter of the Dalai Lama, who joyfully described the event as a "joyous, joyous day" and praised the Dalai Lama for embodying selflessness with a heartfelt embrace and kiss on his hand. The festivities marked the close of a week filled with long-life prayers, which began on a Monday, coinciding with his birthday on the Tibetan lunar calendar.

At a ceremony preceding the celebration, the Dalai Lama reassured his followers about his "great physical condition," confidently indicating that he envisages living until he is 130 years old. Although he traditionally shies away from birthday celebrations, the Dalai Lama took the moment to express gratitude to his supporters, urging everyone to reflect on inner peace and compassion.

In his address, he identified himself as a "simple Buddhist monk" and spoke about the importance of focusing on emotional stability and compassion for all beings. Moreover, he announced his plans for a successor, which alleviated concerns regarding the future of the 600-year-old institution following his eventual passing. Traditionally, the Dalai Lama is believed to reincarnate after death, a deeply held religious belief.

Living in exile since fleeing from Chinese authority in 1959, the Dalai Lama has often stated that his reincarnation will occur in a "free world" outside of China. Beijing, however, has contested his authority to determine a successor, insisting that any subsequent Dalai Lama must conform to Chinese law and religious conventions. This ongoing tension raises fears within the Tibetan community that China may seek to appoint a successor to maintain its control over Tibet.

In recognition of the Dalai Lama's significance, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his birthday wishes, calling him an "enduring symbol of love, compassion, patience and moral discipline." Former US President Barack Obama also sent greetings, referring to him as the "youngest 90-year-old I know" and expressing gratitude for their friendship.