In a momentous celebration marking his 90th birthday, the Dalai Lama has expressed a fervent desire to live until the age of 130, reflecting on a life devoted to peace and service. Thousands of followers gathered in Dham Shala, India, where the Tibetan Buddhist leader has lived in exile for over six decades, to honor his legacy. As he addressed the crowd, the Dalai Lama emphasized his lack of regrets, stating, “I see that I have not wasted my life at all.”

This milestone comes with significant announcements, including the Dalai Lama’s confirmation of a successor, quelling fears that he may be the last to hold the revered title. The announcement challenges the Chinese government’s claims to authority over the next Dalai Lama, insisting that his successor must be born in a free country, not under Chinese control.

The atmosphere was electric, with Hollywood star Richard Gere among the many paying tribute to the Dalai Lama’s embodiment of selflessness and compassion. “We’ve never seen someone like this,” he remarked, highlighting the global admiration for the spiritual leader’s unwavering commitment to the Tibetan cause and humanity at large.

Since fleeing Tibet in 1959 amidst political turmoil, the Dalai Lama has become a symbol of resistance against oppression, advocating for the rights and freedoms of his people. As he celebrates this remarkable birthday, the world watches closely, aware that his legacy continues to inspire hope for many. The urgency of his message resonates louder than ever, as the Dalai Lama remains a beacon of peace in turbulent times.