Thousands Celebrate Dalai Lama's 90th Birthday in Dharamshala Amid Succession Dispute

Thousands of Tibetan Buddhists gathered in Dharamshala, India, to celebrate the 90th birthday of the Dalai Lama, who recently announced plans to reincarnate after his death, ending speculation that he might be the last to hold the role. The celebrations took place amid heavy monsoon rain and fog, with hundreds of monks, nuns, and followers participating in prayers and ceremonies at the main Dalai Lama temple. The Dalai Lama, living in exile since 1959, expressed hope to live until 130 and reaffirmed that his successor should be recognized according to traditional Buddhist customs, preferably born outside of China. This has raised concerns among Tibetans in exile that China might impose its own choice for his successor to strengthen control over Tibet, a territory China has governed since 1950. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent greetings praising the Dalai Lama's message of compassion and moral discipline, while Chinese officials cautioned India against interfering in what they deem China's internal affairs. The Dalai Lama remains internationally revered as a symbol of compassion and spiritual leadership, sustaining Tibetan culture and identity through decades of exile.