The 14th Dalai Lama, now 89, expressed his belief that he will live beyond 100, despite recent health challenges, including knee surgery. Although he still walks with assistance, he continues to meet hundreds of followers in Dharamshala, India, where he resides. He has been a spiritual leader and advocate for Tibet for decades, and concerns about his succession have grown as his health has become a focal point for Tibetan Buddhists.

The Dalai Lama's predictions about his long life offer reassurance to followers, but many are eager for more clarity on his successor. The process of identifying the next Dalai Lama will be led by the Gaden Phodrang Foundation, established by the Dalai Lama in 2015. This foundation will oversee the search and recognition of the next reincarnation, in accordance with Tibetan Buddhist beliefs.

The Dalai Lama's health and succession are not just religious matters but also central to geopolitics, particularly in the context of India-China relations. After fleeing China in 1959, the Dalai Lama has remained a figure of resistance to Beijing's control over Tibet. China insists it will choose the next Dalai Lama, but the current leader has stated that his reincarnation could be found in India, which would be a direct challenge to China's influence.

As he nears his 90th birthday, many hope for clear guidance from the Dalai Lama about his successor and the future of the Tibetan cause. His political and spiritual legacy continues to be a source of hope and concern for Tibetans worldwide.