Why in News? 

The 90th birth anniversary of the Buddhist spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, was recently commemorated. 

The Dalai Lama 

The 14^th Dalai Lama 

Religious Identity 

• The Dalai Lama belongs to the Gelugpa tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. 
  • It is the largest and most influential sect in Tibet. 
• The Dalai Lamas are considered manifestations of Avalokiteshvara (Chenrezig). 
  • Avalokiteshvara is the Bodhisattva of Compassion and the patron saint of Tibet. 
• Bodhisattvas are enlightened beings who choose to be reborn to help others attain Buddhahood. 

Historical Overview 

• There have been 14 Dalai Lamas in history. 
  • The first and second Dalai Lamas were awarded the title posthumously. 
• The current Dalai Lama is the 14th, named Tenzin Gyatso. 

1959 Tibetan Uprising & Exile 

• In March 1959, Tibetans revolted against growing Chinese control. 
  • The revolt was brutally suppressed by Chinese forces. 
• The Dalai Lama fled to India with thousands of followers. 
  • He was welcomed by Prime Minister Nehru. 
  • He established the Tibetan government-in-exile in Dharamsala (Himachal Pradesh). 

Process of Choosing the Next Dalai Lama 

• Based on Buddhist belief in reincarnation, the Dalai Lama is reborn after death. 
  • The High Lamas of the Gelugpa tradition lead the search. 
• Steps involved 
  • Identifying potential children as reincarnations. 
  • Lot-drawing ceremony if multiple candidates are found. 
  • The chosen child is brought to Lhasa or Dharamsala for training in Buddhist scriptures. 
• The search can take years; the 14th Dalai Lama was found after four years.