In a significant move reflecting on the future of the Tibetan spiritual leadership, the Dalai Lama convened senior Buddhist monks in Dharamsala, India, to address the growing concerns surrounding his succession amid China's increasing control over Tibetan religious institutions.
**Dalai Lama Takes Proactive Steps on His Succession Amidst Chinese Challenges**
**Dalai Lama Takes Proactive Steps on His Succession Amidst Chinese Challenges**
As the Dalai Lama approaches his 90th birthday, he aims to ensure a successor who is independent of Chinese influence.
The Dalai Lama, exiled since 1959 following the Chinese invasion of Tibet, intends to assert that his office maintains "sole authority" in identifying his reincarnation, preempting any potential interference from the Chinese state. His statement comes as Beijing attempts to exercise power over Tibetan affairs, labeling him a separatist leader.
Traditionally, the search for the next Dalai Lama starts after the current leader's death, a continuity that poses risks given the current political climate. Recognizing the potential for chaos in leadership transition, the Dalai Lama has been vocal about exploring alternative paths for his successor, suggesting that the next Dalai Lama might be born in a free country or break from traditional norms.
In a remarkable indication of his progressive thinking, he has suggested that his successor could be an adult or even a female, signaling a departure from centuries-old practices. A definitive statement on this crucial matter is anticipated around his upcoming 90th birthday celebration, as he seeks to safeguard the legacy and autonomy of Tibetan Buddhism against external pressures.
Traditionally, the search for the next Dalai Lama starts after the current leader's death, a continuity that poses risks given the current political climate. Recognizing the potential for chaos in leadership transition, the Dalai Lama has been vocal about exploring alternative paths for his successor, suggesting that the next Dalai Lama might be born in a free country or break from traditional norms.
In a remarkable indication of his progressive thinking, he has suggested that his successor could be an adult or even a female, signaling a departure from centuries-old practices. A definitive statement on this crucial matter is anticipated around his upcoming 90th birthday celebration, as he seeks to safeguard the legacy and autonomy of Tibetan Buddhism against external pressures.
