What is the Dalai Lama?
The Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, believed to be the reincarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. The current 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, was born in 1935 and recognized at age 2. He fled to India in 1959 after a failed uprising and now lives in exile in Dharamshala, advocating for peace and Tibetan autonomy.
Who Will Be the Next Dalai Lama?
As the 14th Dalai Lama turns 90 in 2025, the question of succession is both spiritual and geopolitical.
🧘♂️ Traditional Belief
- The Dalai Lama reincarnates after death.
- Monks search for a child with signs like recognizing past items or being born under auspicious signs.
- The process involves visions, rituals, and oracles.
🏛️ New in 2025
- The Dalai Lama confirmed the institution will continue.
- Only the Gaden Phodrang Trust in India will recognize his successor—rejecting China’s role.
- The next Dalai Lama:
- May be born outside Tibet
- Can be of any gender
- Will be chosen by Tibetan tradition, not politics.
🌏 Why It Matters
- China claims authority to select the next Dalai Lama.
- Tibetans and global allies reject this, fearing a China-controlled successor.
- Many nations support a free and authentic succession.
