The Dalai Lama, the exiled spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, has confirmed that the 600-year-old institution of the Dalai Lama will continue after his death.
Speaking in a video message at a meeting of religious leaders in Dharamshala, he stated, "I am affirming that the institution will continue."
The announcement ends years of speculation about whether the role would cease with him, particularly after past remarks suggesting he might be the last Dalai Lama or that a female successor could be chosen.
The process to identify the next Dalai Lama will follow established Buddhist traditions, involving consultation with heads of Tibetan Buddhist traditions and other religious leaders.
The Dalai Lama emphasized that his successor would be born outside China, a stance that has heightened tensions with Beijing, which claims sole authority to appoint the next Dalai Lama.
"No-one else has any such authority to interfere in this matter," he said, addressing China’s attempts to influence the succession.
This follows his escape to India in 1959 after a failed uprising against Chinese rule in Tibet, where he has since led a government-in-exile.
The announcement coincides with celebrations for the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday, attended by over 7,000 guests in Dharamshala, including Indian ministers and Hollywood actor Richard Gere.
Yousdon Aukatsang, an MP in the Tibetan parliament-in-exile, underscored the institution’s significance, stating, "The Dalai Lama institution is very important for the Tibetan struggle. It's also a symbol of Tibetan identity and a beacon of our spiritual refuge."
However, concerns persist about China’s intention to name its own Dalai Lama, which experts like Dibyesh Anand predict will lack legitimacy among Tibetans and the global Buddhist community.