Dalai Lama celebrates 90th birthday amid succession debate, says I hope to live for 30-40 years more

The Dalai Lama turned 90 on Sunday following days of celebrations in the northern Indian town of Dharamshala, where the spiritual leader of Tibet has been living in exile for decades.

Thousands of Tibetan Buddhists, along with celebrities and  officials from the United States and India, have gathered in the scenic Himalayan town to honor the Dalai Lama with the occasion also leading to a politically charged succession debate.

What did the Dalai Lama say ahead of his birthday?

The Dalai Lama described himself as "just a simple buddhist monk" in his birthday message.

"I will continue to focus on my commitments of promoting human values, religious harmony, drawing attention to the ancient Indian wisdom which explains the workings of mind and emotions, and Tibetan culture and heritage, which has so much potential to contribute to the world through its emphasis on peace of mind and compassion," he said.

Earlier this week, the head of Tibetan Buddhism said that he plans to reincarnate after dying.

The Dalai Lama said he will have a successor, who could be of any gender, and not necessarily of Tibetan nationality.

The announcement put to rest years of speculation that he might be the last person to hold the role in the sacred tradition that spans 600 years.

"I hope to still live for 30-40 years more," the Dalai Lama said on the eve of his birthday.

90th Birthday Message

On the occasion of my 90th birthday, I understand that well-wishers and friends in many places, including Tibetan communities, are gathering for celebrations. I particularly appreciate the fact that many of you are using the occasion to engage in… pic.twitter.com/bfWjAZ18BO

— Dalai Lama (@DalaiLama) July 5, 2025

The Dalai Lama is scheduled to deliver a speech later on Sunday in which he is expected to talk about his succession.

On Sunday, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the Dalai Lama "an  enduring symbol of love, compassion, patience and moral discipline".

"His message has inspired respect and admiration across all faiths. We pray for his continued good health and long life," Modi wrote on X.

I join 1.4 billion Indians in extending our warmest wishes to His Holiness the Dalai Lama on his 90th birthday. He has been an enduring symbol of love, compassion, patience and moral discipline. His message has inspired respect and admiration across all faiths. We pray for his…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2025