Dharmshala: The Dalai Lama has turned 90, marking the milestone with week-long celebrations in Dharamshala that have once again placed his lifelong struggle for Tibetan autonomy under the spotlight.
The Nobel Peace Prize laureate, who fled Tibet in 1959 after a failed uprising against Chinese rule, remains a global symbol of non-violence, compassion and religious freedom.
Throughout the week, thousands of followers, celebrities and senior officials from India and the United States have joined events in the Himalayan foothill town, which has been home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government-in-exile for over six decades.
90th Birthday Message
On the occasion of my 90th birthday, I understand that well-wishers and friends in many places, including Tibetan communities, are gathering for celebrations. I particularly appreciate the fact that many of you are using the occasion to engage in… pic.twitter.com/bfWjAZ18BO
— Dalai Lama (@DalaiLama) July 5, 2025
Cultural performances, prayers, and speeches have filled the celebrations, highlighting the enduring reverence that people around the world hold for the Dalai Lama.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio have been among the world leaders to extend birthday greetings. Modi called him an ‘enduring symbol of love and moral discipline,’ while Rubio underlined America’s support for Tibetans right to preserve their cultural and religious heritage without interference.
The Dalai Lama’s succession has been a key concern for his followers. Addressing this during the celebrations, Lama assured devotees that he would reincarnate and that only his non-profit institution, the Gaden Phodrang Trust, has the authority to identify his successor. This directly challenges Beijing’s claim that the Chinese government must approve the next Dalai Lama.
China, which brands Lama a separatist, has long insisted on controlling the succession process to tighten its grip over Tibetan Buddhism. The United States, in response, has repeatedly called on China to respect the freedom of Tibetans to choose and venerate their religious leaders without external interference.
Despite being exiled for more than 60 years, the Dalai Lama has remained steadfast in advocating for the ‘Middle Way’, a peaceful approach seeking genuine autonomy for Tibet within China rather than outright independence. Lama’s message of unity, peace and compassion continues to resonate far beyond the Buddhist community, inspiring millions worldwide.
As Dalai Lama enters his tenth decade, the Dalai Lama has told his followers he hopes to live beyond 130, underscoring his determination to continue guiding the Tibetan people and defying Chinese pressure for years to come.
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