Sun Jul 06 03:58:18 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**Thousands Flock to Dharamshala as Dalai Lama Celebrates 90th Birthday**
**DHARAMSHALA, INDIA – July 6, 2025** – Thousands of Tibetan Buddhists are gathering in the Himalayan town of Dharamshala today to celebrate the 90th birthday of the Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso. Despite heavy rain, throngs of red-robed monks and nuns, along with countless lay followers, made their way to the Dalai Lama Temple complex, where the spiritual leader is scheduled to deliver a speech.
The 14th Dalai Lama, who has lived in exile since fleeing Chinese rule in Tibet in 1959, is expected to be joined by followers from around the globe, as well as dignitaries from the United States and India.
This week, the Nobel Peace Prize laureate reiterated his intention to reincarnate after his death, addressing years of speculation about the future of the Dalai Lama lineage. He also emphasized that the selection and recognition of his successor should follow traditional Buddhist practices. He expressed hope of living until 130.
The Dalai Lama’s pronouncements come amid ongoing concerns about China’s potential interference in the selection of the next Dalai Lama. The current Dalai Lama has stated that his successor will be born in the “free world,” a clear indication of his distrust of the Chinese government. China, which views the Dalai Lama as a separatist, has repeatedly asserted its authority to approve the next spiritual leader, rejecting any choice made without its consent.
Since his arrival in India over seven decades ago, the Dalai Lama has become a globally recognized figure, embodying the struggle for Tibetan autonomy and the preservation of Tibetan culture in exile. His birthday celebration serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of the Tibetan people and their unwavering devotion to their spiritual leader.
First Piper 