Dalai Lama hopes to live to 130 years
- Dharamshala, India — In July 2025, the Dalai Lama celebrated his 90th birthday with thousands of followers in the Himalayan town of Dharamshala, where he has lived in exile since 1959. During the celebration, he shared his hope to live beyond 130 years. The event was filled with prayers, music, and cultural performances, despite heavy rain.
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The Dalai Lama said, “I have been able to serve the Buddha dharma and the Tibetan people well. I hope to live for more than 130 years.” He also reflected on his life, saying, “When I look back, I see that I have not wasted it. I live my life in the service of other sentient beings.” The celebration included messages from world leaders such as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Hollywood actor Richard Gere also attended and praised the Dalai Lama as “the most extraordinary man to ever walk on this planet.”
The Dalai Lama confirmed that he plans to reincarnate after his death, continuing the tradition of Tibetan Buddhist leadership. He emphasized that the process of choosing his successor should follow Buddhist tradition, not political influence. This statement was seen as a response to China, which has claimed authority over selecting the next Dalai Lama.
The 90th birthday celebration also marked the beginning of the Year of Compassion, a year-long tribute to the Dalai Lama’s teachings and legacy. The event was a powerful reminder of his lifelong commitment to peace, compassion, and cultural pride.