Why in news?
On his 90th birthday, the 14th Dalai Lama reiterated that the Gaden Phodrang Trust will be the sole authority to recognise his reincarnation, ensuring succession without external interference.
About the trust
- Origin and location: Gaden Phodrang initially referred to the Dalai Lama’s residence at Drepung Monastery in Lhasa. The trust, registered in Dharamshala in 2011, is chaired by the Dalai Lama and managed by senior monks.
- Historical role: Since the 17th century, Gaden Phodrang served as both the spiritual and political seat of the Dalai Lamas. After the 1959 exile, it transitioned into a spiritual trust safeguarding Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
- Functions: Holds exclusive authority to identify and validate future Dalai Lamas; promotes Tibetan spiritual heritage; coordinates with associated institutions; and protects religious sovereignty from external (especially Chinese) interference.
- Selection process: The trust, guided by Tibetan Buddhist rituals, interprets spiritual signs, consults lamas and oracles, and performs divinations to recognise reincarnations.
The announcement reinforces Tibetan autonomy in succession matters and underscores cultural preservation efforts in exile.