Dharamsala, July 5 - Tibetan spiritual and religious leader the Dalai Lama on Saturday put to rest rumours about the announcement of his successor, saying he hopes to live another 30-40 years to serve the people. Speaking at his longevity prayer ceremony at the main Dalai Lama temple, Suglagkhang, in McLeod Ganj ahead of his 90th birth anniversary being celebrated on Sunday, Tenzin Gyatso said he has "clear indications" that Avalokiteshvara's blessings are with him.
"Looking at many prophecies, I feel that I have Avalokiteshvara's blessings. I have tried my best so far. I hope I will live another 30-40 years. Your prayers will bear fruit," the Tibetan spiritual leader said.
He added that he had felt since childhood that he had a strong connection with Avalokiteshvara. “And I have been able to serve Buddhism and the people of Tibet until now,” he said. And yet I hope to live for more than 130 years.”
The Tibetan government-in-exile has planned a week-long series of events here to mark the birth anniversary of the 14th Dalai Lama. As part of the celebrations, a longevity prayer ceremony was held at the main temple, which was attended by more than 15,000 people.
According to Tenzin Lakshe, a spokesman for the Central Tibetan Administration, the temple was crowded with devotees, representatives of different sects of Tibetan Buddhism, and senior lamas from various monasteries.
On this occasion, the Dalai Lama also recalled his meeting with Chinese leader Mao Zedong, whose famous quote is: “Religion is poison.” The spiritual leader said, “…but I didn’t answer him, so he actually looked at me very badly, but I didn’t react. And I felt sorry. Then later I met Nehru. Throughout my life, I have met people who are interested in religion and those who are not interested in religion.”