The 14th Dalai Lama, now 89, remains optimistic about his health and longevity despite concerns from his followers about his future and succession. Following knee surgery in June, the spiritual leader expressed confidence, stating, “According to my dream, I may live 110 years.” He resumed meeting with his followers in September after a period of recovery, though he still walks with the aid of aides and uses a golf cart for longer distances. Despite his health setbacks, the Dalai Lama reassured his devotees, saying, "The knee too is improving... Not much serious problem."

However, his declining age and health have raised questions about the future of Tibetan Buddhism, particularly his succession. The Dalai Lama has addressed the issue with a consistent message over the years, though followers hope for clearer guidance when he turns 90 in July 2025. Dolma Tsering Teykhang, deputy speaker of the Tibetan parliament-in-exile, expressed hope that the Dalai Lama will provide definitive instructions regarding his reincarnation, particularly since the Tibetan Buddhist tradition believes that learned monks are reincarnated as newborns.

While the Dalai Lama has not yet made any concrete statements about his successor, Teykhang emphasized that the Tibetan government-in-exile has a system in place for continuity. The Gaden Phodrang Foundation, established by the Dalai Lama in 2015, plays a key role in identifying and supporting the next Dalai Lama. This organization oversees the religious and spiritual duties tied to the Dalai Lama’s institution.

Teykhang, who finds it difficult to even contemplate the Dalai Lama’s passing, acknowledged the vital role the Dalai Lama plays in the Tibetan struggle. She expressed uncertainty about Tibet's future without him but expressed hope in the administration he has built over six decades.

The Dalai Lama’s succession is not just a spiritual matter but also carries significant geopolitical implications, especially in the context of India-China relations. Since fleeing to India in 1959 after a failed uprising against Chinese rule, the Dalai Lama has been a prominent figure in the Tibetan cause. While China insists on having the authority to choose his successor, the Dalai Lama has expressed that his reincarnation could potentially be found in India, warning that any successor chosen by China would not be respected.

The Dalai Lama’s influence extends beyond religion, as his advocacy for Tibetan autonomy and human rights has earned him global recognition, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989. His statements and actions remain a source of tension between India and China, with Beijing viewing him as a separatist.

In recent months, the Dalai Lama has also shown support for U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, praising his stance on human rights and Tibet. Meanwhile, officials from the Tibetan government-in-exile, including Sikyong Penpa Tsering, have been active in the U.S. to ensure continued support for Tibet’s cause across both Republican and Democratic administrations.

As the Dalai Lama’s health and legacy continue to inspire discussion, his clarity on the future of Tibetan Buddhism and his succession remains an area of great anticipation and concern among his followers.