Dharamsala (Arvind Sharma), July 5, 2025
In a significant spiritual and symbolic declaration, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama on Saturday stated that he expects to live for another 30 to 40 years, effectively dismissing current speculation surrounding the announcement of his successor.
The Tibetan spiritual leader made the statement while addressing a gathering during a Long Life Prayer (Tenshug) ceremony organized in his honour by the Kashag (Cabinet) of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), on behalf of all Tibetans. The prayer ceremony was held at the Tsuglagkhang Complex, the main Tibetan temple in Dharamsala.
“Looking at the many prophecies, I feel I have the blessings of Avalokiteshvara. I have done my best so far and I hope to live for another 30 to 40 years,” said the Dalai Lama, expressing confidence in his continued ability to serve humanity. “There are clear signs and indications that the blessings of Avalokiteshvara are with me,” he added.
Addressing the global Tibetan community and well-wishers, the Dalai Lama acknowledged the pain of exile but emphasized the opportunity it has brought. “Though we have lost our country and live in exile in India, I have been able to benefit sentient beings significantly. Living here in Dharamsala, I intend to continue to serve people and uphold the Dharma,” he said.
The spiritual leader also reiterated that the authority to recognize his reincarnation lies solely with the Gaden Phodrang Trust—his non-profit institution—refuting external claims over the process. This statement comes amid China’s repeated assertions that it must approve any successor to the Dalai Lama, citing a historical legacy of imperial oversight—an assertion the Tibetan leadership and diaspora have consistently rejected.
The function was attended by various dignitaries, including Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, underscoring the significance of the occasion.
The Dalai Lama, who fled Tibet in 1959 following a failed uprising against Chinese rule, has been living in exile in Dharamsala for over six decades. He will observe his 90th birthday on Sunday, July 6, 2025.
