By: Dr. Avi Verma, Publisher, IndoUS Tribune

This past Sunday, the world paused to acknowledge a momentous occasion: the 90th birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso. While he humbly refers to himself as “a simple Buddhist monk” who shies away from grand celebrations, his nine decades on Earth have undeniably etched an indelible legacy of peace, compassion, and resilience that resonates far beyond the Himalayan foothills he now calls home.

His Holiness’s life has been a living testament to the power of a “good heart” and the pursuit of inner peace. From his exile in India since 1959, after Chinese troops moved into Lhasa, he has led a lifelong, non-violent campaign for greater autonomy for Tibet. More profoundly, his teachings on universal responsibility, interfaith harmony, and the cultivation of compassion have transcended religious and cultural boundaries, inspiring millions globally. He has consistently championed human rights and dignity, not just for Tibetans, but for all people. In a world often fractured by conflict, his consistent message of reconciliation and understanding has truly helped to make the world a better place, demonstrating that moral leadership rooted in empathy can be a powerful force for global good.

However, celebrations for this iconic spiritual leader are invariably accompanied by the enduring and sensitive issue of his succession—a major bone of contention with Beijing. China has adamantly insisted that it holds the ultimate authority in approving the next reincarnation of the Dalai Lama, even proposing a selection via “drawing lots from a golden urn.” This stance is firmly rejected by His Holiness, who has unequivocally stated that his India-based office alone will “exclusively” identify his successor, and that the next Dalai Lama will emerge from the “free world,” outside of China’s control. This fundamental disagreement raises the distinct possibility of rival claimants to the spiritual leadership, creating deep concern among Tibetans in exile regarding the future of their cultural and religious identity.

India’s position, as the host nation for the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government-in-exile, has been consistently one of reverence and support. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s effusive birthday greetings, calling the Dalai Lama an “enduring symbol of love,” underscore India’s deep respect for his spiritual authority and humanitarian message, even as it navigates its complex relationship with regional rival China.

The United States, too, has maintained a clear stance on Tibetan autonomy and religious freedom. Statements from U.S. leadership have consistently emphasized America’s commitment to promoting respect for the human rights and fundamental freedoms of Tibetans. The outpouring of support from figures like Hollywood star Richard Gere and former U.S. Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama – who praised the Dalai Lama for embodying selflessness and speaking up for freedom and dignity – further highlights the international recognition of his unique role and the implicit support for his right to guide the future of his spiritual institution without external imposition.

As His Holiness reflects on his 90 years, expressing no regrets and a peaceful outlook towards his passing, his assertion that the spiritual institution of the Dalai Lamas will continue after him brings both hope and challenges. His life has been a powerful beacon, embodying the very principles he advocates. For the IndoUS Tribune, the Dalai Lama represents not just a religious figure, but a global moral compass whose enduring message of peace, compassion, and advocacy for human dignity remains profoundly relevant in our increasingly interconnected, yet often turbulent, world. His legacy is one that transcends borders and continues to inspire millions to cultivate a better heart for a better world.