In a significant declaration just days before his 90th birthday, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama has confirmed that the centuries-old institution of the Dalai Lama will continue after his death. This announcement, made from his exile home in Dharamshala, aims to put an end to years of speculation regarding his succession and firmly rebuts Beijing's longstanding claims of authority over the process. The spiritual leader stated that his successor would be found in accordance with traditional Buddhist practices and, crucially, outside of Chinese control.

Dalai Lama emphasized that the sole authority to recognize his future reincarnation rests with the Gaden Phodrang Trust, a non-profit institution he established. He unequivocally stated, "No one else has any such authority to interfere in this matter." This statement is seen as a direct challenge to the Chinese Communist Party, which has consistently asserted its right to appoint the next Dalai Lama, often citing historical precedents that Tibetans and many international observers dispute. The ongoing political and spiritual battle over this succession is central to the future of Tibetan Buddhism and the autonomy of the Tibetan people.

Traditionally, the search for a new Dalai Lama begins after the incumbent's passing, involving senior monastic figures who look for signs and omens to identify a child born around that time. This child then undergoes rigorous tests and training. The current Dalai Lama has, however, also hinted at the possibility of an adult or even female successor, introducing further nuances to the conventional process while remaining firm on the principle of a successor chosen free from external political manipulation.

Beijing swiftly responded to the Dalai Lama's declaration, reiterating its stance that the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama "must be approved by the central government" and follow procedures within China, including the use of the "golden urn" lottery. This stark divergence sets the stage for a potential scenario of two competing Dalai Lamas in the future – one recognized by the Tibetan Buddhist community loyal to the current Dalai Lama, and another appointed by the Chinese state, further deepening the complex geopolitical tensions surrounding Tibet.