PM Modi Extends Warm Wishes
Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X, “I join 1.4 billion Indians in extending our warmest wishes to His Holiness the Dalai Lama on his 90th birthday.” He called the Dalai Lama an “enduring symbol of love, compassion, patience, and moral discipline.”
Modi added that the Dalai Lama’s teachings have inspired people across faiths and borders, wishing him continued good health and a long life.
Global Support Pours In
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also released a statement reaffirming the U.S. commitment to Tibetan human rights. “We support efforts to preserve Tibetans’ distinct linguistic, cultural, and religious heritage, including their ability to freely choose religious leaders,” he said.
Dalai Lama Hopes to Live Beyond 130
Speaking during the prayer ceremony at Tsuglakhang Temple, the Dalai Lama expressed his aspiration to live for another 30 to 40 years. “I have served the Buddha dharma and Tibetan people sincerely. I hope to continue for decades more,” he said to thousands of followers in attendance.
Succession Row Sparks China-India Friction
Amid celebrations, the succession controversy intensified. On July 2, the Dalai Lama reiterated that his reincarnation will happen “outside China” and would be identified solely by his non-profit institution, the Gaden Phodrang Trust.
This declaration drew sharp response from China, which insists that the next Dalai Lama must be approved through its state mechanism, including a “Golden Urn” lot-drawing tradition. Chinese spokesperson Mao Ning stated that “Tibetan Buddhism is a religion with Chinese characteristics.”
India Stands Firm on Non-Interference
India, meanwhile, has stood firm. Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh clarified, “India will not interfere in any religious activity.” Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, a known follower of the Dalai Lama, said, “Anyone who follows the Dalai Lama wants his successor to be chosen by him alone.”
While China objected to Rijiju’s remarks, urging India to “honor commitments on Tibet,” India reiterated that the issue is religious and not political.
Why It Matters
The succession of the Dalai Lama remains a sensitive geopolitical flashpoint between India and China. As His Holiness turns 90 and reaffirms his commitment to his spiritual duties, the global community closely watches how the eventual succession will unfold — and whether it leads to more friction or diplomacy between Asia’s two giants.
