Will the Dalai Lama Address the Reincarnation Process at the Buddhist Summit?

Dharamsala, July 2 (NationPress) A three-day Buddhist assembly commenced on Wednesday in McLeodganj, a charming hill station located near the northern town of Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh. The Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, who is approaching his 90th birthday on July 6, delivered a video message that is anticipated to touch upon the selection process for his next reincarnation, amidst concerns over Beijing’s attempts to undermine the rich tapestry of Tibetan identity and culture.

Attendees are eager to hear his insights on the politically charged matter of succession within the Dalai Lama lineage at the 15th Tibetan Religious Conference. This gathering includes prominent leaders from all four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism: Gelug, Kagyu, Nyingma, and Sakya.

The forthcoming Dalai Lama, the 15th incarnation, will uphold a lineage that has remained unbroken for approximately 500 years, independent from external influence.

Who is the Dalai Lama?

The present Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, was born in 1935 into a farming family in a small village in Taktser, Amdo, located in northeastern Tibet. Recognized as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama at the tender age of two, he represents a critical figure in Tibetan culture.

According to Tibetan tradition, the recognition of a Lama’s reincarnation, particularly that of the Dalai Lama, is based on spiritual signs rather than appointment. This sacred process involves profound visions and rituals, with the sitting Dalai Lama holding the exclusive authority to identify his successor.

On June 30, during celebrations for his 90th birthday, the Dalai Lama expressed to the audience, “Although I am now 90 years old, I am physically healthy and well. Throughout my life, I have dedicated myself to the welfare of Tibetans and the Dharma. I have forged connections globally and engaged in meaningful dialogue with scientists. My life has been fulfilling.”

The Nobel Peace Laureate emphasized the necessity for a “framework” to ensure the future of the Dalai Lama institution, underscoring the critical importance of its spiritual authority.

“Regarding the Dalai Lama institution, there will be a structure for its continuity. I was born in Dhomey and later moved to Lhasa for my education. I believe I have effectively served the Dharma and all sentient beings, and I am committed to continuing this mission,” the esteemed leader of Tibetan Buddhism remarked.

Sixty-six years ago, the 14th Dalai Lama, disguised as a soldier, fled Norbulingka Palace during a tumultuous period in Tibet. Since then, he has been a prominent guest of the Indian government, advocating for human values and cultural preservation.

On March 17, 1959, he escaped to India after a brutal crackdown in Tibet, and he has since been a global ambassador for compassion and peace, chronicled in his recent book, ‘In Voice for the Voiceless’, which reflects on his encounters with China.

This book captures his life journey, portraying the challenges faced by Tibetans and the ongoing struggle for their freedom and cultural identity.

At just 16, he witnessed the invasion of Tibet by Communist China in 1950, met Chairman Mao at 19, and by 25, he was leading his people in exile.

After a perilous journey, he first settled in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand, before moving to Dharamsala. On March 10, 1960, he stated, “For us in exile, our priority must be the preservation of our cultural heritage and the hope for eventual freedom for Tibet.”

Today, approximately 100,000 Tibetans reside in India along with a government-in-exile.

(Vishal Gulati can be reached at vishal.g@ians.in)