Dalai Lama Hopes to Live to 130, Reaffirms Reincarnation Plan

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Speaking at a long-life prayer ceremony in McLeodganj, the Tibetan spiritual leader expresses desire to live another 40 years and continue serving humanity

By TRH News Desk

McLeodganj, July 5, 2025 – On the eve of his 90th birthday, His Holiness the Dalai Lama expressed hope that he would live for another 30 to 40 years, aiming to reach the age of 130, during a long-life prayer ceremony held at the Tsuglagkhang Temple in McLeodganj, Dharamshala, on Saturday.

The ceremony, organized by his followers to mark the milestone occasion, drew thousands of devotees from around the world, including senior Indian ministers and US diplomats. Among them was Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, who sought blessings and later posted on X: “His Holiness the Dalai Lama gave blessings at the Long Life Prayer ceremony in Dharamshala ahead of his 90th birth anniversary. He mentioned feeling the blessings of Avalokiteshvara and expressed his intention to continue serving people for another 30–40 years.”

Addressing the gathering, the Nobel Peace Prize laureate and revered Tibetan spiritual leader credited his longevity to the blessings of Avalokiteshvara, Tibet’s patron deity.

“Looking at the many prophecies, I feel I have the blessings of Avalokiteshvara. I have done my best so far. I hope to live for 30–40 more years,” he told the crowd, which responded with loud applause.

The statement comes just days after the Dalai Lama, in a July 2 statement, reaffirmed the continuation of the Dalai Lama institution, saying: “In accordance with all these requests, I am affirming that the institution of the Dalai Lama will continue.”

He noted receiving numerous appeals urging him to ensure the spiritual lineage is preserved. The Gaden Phodrang Trust, his non-profit organization, has been designated to recognize his successor.

China reacted swiftly, claiming Beijing’s approval would be necessary for any future Dalai Lama. In response, India’s Ministry of External Affairs reiterated its stance of non-interference in religious matters. However, Minister Rijiju’s presence at the prayer ceremony was widely interpreted as a subtle message to Beijing to refrain from meddling in Tibetan religious affairs.

Reflecting on his life in exile since fleeing Tibet in 1959, the Dalai Lama said: “Though we lost our country and now live in exile in India, I’ve been able to benefit many beings here.”

As Dharamshala gears up for grand birthday celebrations on Sunday, the exiled Tibetan community has adorned the town with giant posters, banners, and billboards, celebrating the life and spiritual legacy of their leader.

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