Who Will Be the Next Dalai Lama?
Have you ever wondered who will succeed the current Dalai Lama when he is no longer with us?
For millions of Buddhists around the world, this is not just a question of choosing a new spiritual leader, but a sacred wait — for the reincarnation of a soul that embodies compassion, wisdom, and peace.
According to centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist tradition, the Dalai Lama is believed to be the reincarnation of Avalokiteshvara — the Bodhisattva of Compassion. Each time a Dalai Lama passes away, his followers begin the search for his rebirth, guided by spiritual visions, signs, and meditative insights. The current and 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, was born in 1935 and was recognised as the Dalai Lama in 1940.
But times have changed. In today’s world, where religion, politics, and identity often overlap, the question of “Who will be the next Dalai Lama?” has become far more complex — and sensitive.
What Does Tradition Say?
As per Tibetan belief, the reincarnated child is not randomly chosen — he is found through divine signs, visions, dreams, and years of spiritual investigation by senior monks and lamas. The process
Buddhismis deeply sacred and guided by the spiritual realm.
However, the socio-political situation today — especially between China and Tibet — has thrown this tradition into uncertainty. With Tibet under Chinese control and religious freedom in question, the age-old practice of spiritual reincarnation is now caught between politics and faith.
Who Will Decide the Next Dalai Lama?
That is the heart of the dilemma. Traditionally, senior Tibetan lamas and monastic leaders search and recognise the next Dalai Lama. But China has already announced that it will appoint its own Dalai Lama, raising concerns of a politically influenced selection rather than a spiritual one.
Interestingly, the current Dalai Lama himself has said that if he passes away in India, his next reincarnation could also take birth here. In fact, he has even stated that the tradition of reincarnation can be discontinued, if the Tibetan people decide so. This means — there may be a next Dalai Lama, or there may not.
Could the Next Dalai Lama Be Born in India?
Very likely. Since 1959, the current Dalai Lama has been living in exile in India, and the country has been a spiritual refuge for the Tibetan community. The town of Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh, often referred to as “Mini Tibet”, could very well become the birthplace or spiritual home of the next Dalai Lama.
Will There Be Two Dalai Lamas in the Future?
Some analysts believe that the future may witness two Dalai Lamas — one chosen by the Tibetan Buddhist tradition (possibly born in India), and one endorsed by China. This could create confusion among followers — who is the “real” Dalai Lama?
It’s a situation that has never occurred before, and one that might test the unity of the global Tibetan Buddhist community.
Yet, Hope Lives On…
Whether the next Dalai Lama is born in India, Tibet, or not born at all — one truth remains unchanged:
The Dalai Lama is not merely a person, but a living idea — of compassion, non-violence, and spiritual strength.
As long as this idea lives in people’s hearts, the spirit of the Dalai Lama will never die.
So, who will be the next Dalai Lama?
Maybe time itself doesn’t wish to answer just yet. But when the time is right, perhaps in a peaceful Himalayan valley, a young child may once again be born — ready to teach us the timeless path of compassion and inner peace.
- Religion World Bureau
