The Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama made a big announcement about his successor. He said that his Gaden Fodrang Trust has the right to choose his renunciation. The statement came at the 15th Tibetan religious conference in Dharamshala on 2 July 2025. The Dalai Lama is 90 years old on 6 July. He made it clear that after his death the 15th Dalai Lama would be selected according to the Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
China immediately reacted to this statement. Foreign Ministry spokesman Mao Ning said, “Buddhist leaders like Dalai Lama and Panchan Lama cannot be regenerated without the approval of Beijing.” He cited the Golden Arn Riwas of the 18th century King Dynasty. China says that the successor should be selected in its area.
The Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959 after repression of the Chinese Army in Tibet. Since then, he has been living a deported life in Dharamshala. China considers him separatist. The Dalai Lama said that his successor would be born outside China. He asked his followers to dismiss any successor elected by China.
This statement may increase tension between India and China. Gaden Fodrang Trust is in India, which is the support of the Government of India. Intelligence sources say this is a shock to China’s Tibet strategy.
In 1995, Pancharen Lama, Gedun Choaiki Nayima, elected by the Dalai Lama, disappeared by China. He was just six years old then. China appointed its Pancharen Lama.
This statement of the Dalai Lama is the message of protecting Tibetan culture and religious freedom. He said, “The 600 -year -old Dalai Lama’s organization will continue.” This statement is a challenge for China and diplomatic victory for India.
