By M10News International Desk | July 5, 2025
The Dalai Lama has confirmed there will be a successor after his death, ending years of speculation about whether he would be the last spiritual leader of Tibet.
Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama since 1940, announced a prayer ceremony marking his 90th birthday in the Tibetan calendar. His birthday in the Gregorian calendar falls this Sunday.
The exiled Tibetan leader stated that his successor should be identified following Buddhist traditions — a pointed message aimed at preventing Chinese authorities from influencing the process.
China’s communist government, however, has repeatedly asserted that it holds the authority to select the next Dalai Lama, raising fears of competing claims over the spiritual leadership of Tibet.
The Dalai Lama fled Tibet for India in 1959 after a failed uprising against Chinese rule. He has lived in Dharamshala ever since, where he helped establish a democratic government-in-exile and continues to advocate for Tibetan autonomy.
For decades, Beijing has sought to undermine the Dalai Lama’s global influence, viewing him as a separatist figure. His worldwide travels have drawn significant attention to China’s heavy-handed policies in Tibet.
How is a Dalai Lama Chosen?
The process of identifying the next Dalai Lama follows ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions, rooted in the belief that the Dalai Lama chooses the body into which he reincarnates.
The search typically begins after the incumbent’s death and can take years. Historically, senior monks search for signs and visions pointing to the child’s identity, often confirming it when the child recognizes personal items belonging to the previous Dalai Lama.
The current Dalai Lama was discovered as a young boy in 1937 when he correctly identified the possessions of his predecessor, leading to his recognition in 1939 and enthronement in 1940.
In 2011, the Dalai Lama hinted that the centuries-old institution could end with him, leaving the decision to the Tibetan Buddhist community. But earlier this year, in his book Voice for the Voiceless, he clarified that his successor would be born in the “free world,” suggesting outside of Chinese control.
During a televised statement at a Buddhist gathering in Dharamshala on June 30, he further cemented his stance, stating the next Dalai Lama should be identified in line with traditions. He also emphasized that the Gaden Phodrang Trust — a non-profit body overseeing matters concerning the Dalai Lama — holds sole authority over the reincarnation process.
“No one else has any such authority to interfere in this matter,” he declared.
China’s Reaction
Shortly after his remarks, China’s foreign ministry reiterated its claim that Beijing must approve any successor. Chinese officials have long argued that they hold the ultimate authority over religious affairs in Tibet, including reincarnation decisions.
Many within the Tibetan Buddhist community had urged the Dalai Lama to publicly commit to appointing a successor, fearing that a leadership vacuum could allow China to install its figurehead.
Observers now anticipate the likelihood of rival Dalai Lamas — one recognized by Beijing, and one by Tibetan Buddhist leaders in exile.
Role and Legacy of the Dalai Lama
The Dalai Lama is regarded as the earthly embodiment of Avalokiteshvara, the Buddhist deity of compassion and Tibet’s patron saint. The institution dates back to 1587, with 14 incarnations to date.
The term “Dalai Lama” translates to “Ocean of Wisdom,” though Tibetans often affectionately refer to him as Yeshin Norbu, meaning “Wish-Fulfilling Gem,” or Kundun, meaning “The Presence.”
Throughout his life, the Dalai Lama has championed peace and human rights, earning the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 for his unwavering commitment to non-violence in the Tibetan struggle for autonomy.
Though he once served as both the spiritual and political leader of Tibet, he relinquished his political authority in 2011 to allow an elected president to lead the government-in-exile, ending a 368-year tradition of Dalai Lamas governing both spheres.
The Dalai Lama has authored or co-authored more than 110 books, cementing his influence as one of the most recognized spiritual leaders in the world.
Reporting by M10News International Desk
