On his 90th birthday, the 14th Dalai Lama remains a symbol of compassion, spiritual wisdom, and non-violent resistance amid Tibet’s long political struggle
The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, turned 90 on Sunday, drawing tributes from global and Indian leaders, even as China sought to overshadow the celebrations with sharp objections to his succession plan.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm wishes, calling the Tibetan spiritual leader "an enduring symbol of love, compassion, patience, and moral discipline". “I join 1.4 billion Indians in extending our warmest wishes to His Holiness... His message has inspired respect and admiration across all faiths. We pray for his continued good health and long life,” Modi posted on X.
In Washington, US Senator Marco Rubio reiterated support for Tibetans’ religious freedom. “We support efforts to preserve Tibetans’ distinct linguistic, cultural, and religious heritage, including their ability to freely choose and venerate religious leaders without interference,” he said, drawing Beijing’s ire.
China responded with a firm rejection of the Dalai Lama’s authority over his own succession. Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Feihong claimed the reincarnation process was governed by “long-standing historical tradition” and insisted the current Dalai Lama had no say in whether it would continue.
“Reincarnation of Dalai Lamas neither began with him nor will end with him,” the ambassador said, reinforcing China’s control over Tibetan spiritual affairs. Despite the political noise, solidarity poured in from around the world. Former US Presidents Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush sent video messages. Obama hailed the spiritual leader as “the youngest 90-year-old I know,” while Clinton praised his compassion-driven life.
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te also extended greetings, writing on X: “We extend our great appreciation for your dedication to peace and human rights—values that resonate deeply in Taiwan.” Meanwhile, thousands gathered in Dharamshala’s Tsuglagkhang courtyard to celebrate the birthday. Attendees included schoolchildren, international performers, Buddhist monks, and representatives from various Tibetan Buddhist sects.
Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Sikkim Minister Sonam Lama, and actor Richard Gere were present at the festivities. Addressing the gathering, the Dalai Lama humbly said: “I am just a simple Buddhist monk. I don’t normally celebrate birthdays… But your love motivates me to keep serving sentient beings.”
He reaffirmed his commitment to promoting human values, religious harmony, and ancient Indian wisdom. “I see that I have not wasted my life,” he said. “Having been titled the Dalai Lama, I have no pride or arrogance. My main practice is to serve the public and the teachings of the Buddha.”
Sikyong Penpa Tsering, president of the Central Tibetan Administration, announced the observance of a global 'Year of Compassion' to honour the Dalai Lama’s legacy.
Born on July 6, 1935, in a farming family in present-day Qinghai province, the Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959 after a failed uprising against Chinese rule. Since then, he has lived in exile in Dharamshala, leading the Tibetan community and advocating for peaceful resistance. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 for his efforts to promote nonviolence and dialogue.
