The Dalai Lama, the exiled spiritual leader of Tibet, has said that the 600-year-old institution of the Dalai Lama will continue even after his death. His announcement is seen as a very important step for his followers across the world, especially those concerned about the future of Tibetan identity and leadership.

This decision comes just a few days before his 90th birthday on July 6. It has brought relief to many Tibetans and global supporters who see the Dalai Lama as a symbol of peace, compassion, and Tibetan cultural identity, especially under Chinese rule.

According to Tibetan beliefs, the Dalai Lama is the 14th reincarnation of a spiritual leader. In a video message shared during a religious gathering in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, where he has lived for decades, the Dalai Lama said he received several requests over the years urging him to continue the institution.

"I have received multiple appeals over the past 14 years from Tibetan diaspora in exile, Buddhists from across the Himalayan region, Mongolia and parts of Russia and China, 'earnestly requesting that the institution of the Dalai Lama continue'."

He also said, "In particular, I have received messages through various channels from Tibetans in Tibet making the same appeal."

The Dalai Lama clearly said, "In accordance with all these requests, I am affirming that the institution of the Dalai Lama will continue."

He and thousands of Tibetans have been living in exile in India since 1959, after Chinese troops crushed an uprising in Lhasa. Many exiled Tibetans worry that China may try to name the next Dalai Lama to increase its control over Tibet.

To stop such interference, he said, "I hereby reiterate that the Gaden Phodrang Trust has sole authority to recognise the future reincarnation; no one else has any such authority to interfere in this matter."

This statement has ended years of doubt and given hope to his followers.

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