A little over one week after celebrations around the 90th birthday of the Dalai Lama in Dharmshala, it was the turn of the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in Delhi to reignite global attention on the complex issues surrounding his reincarnation, China’s stance on the matter, and the broader geopolitical implications.
The IBC event drew scholars and monks from all over the world including the US, UK, Russia, Vietnam, Bhutan, Thailand and Malaysia. Discussions centered around the enduring philosophical and ethical significance of Buddhism in today’s world and its intersections with quantum physics and neuroscience.
But there was more concern over the future of Tibetan Buddhism in the face of growing cultural and political challenges. There was animated discussion over “China’s efforts to appropriate Indian and Tibetan Buddhism” and Beijing’s unwanted interference in the reincarnation process.
A delegate from Taiwan warned that even if China appoints its own Dalai Lama, his country would follow the line of succession as laid down by the His Holiness. Well known Tibetologist Claude Arpi underscored the Dalai Lama’s efforts to unite Tibetans, pointing out that such unity is essential for surviving the challenges posed by China.
A declaration issued at the end of the deliberations reffirmed that “From the highlands of Tibet to the corners of the world Holiness teachings transcend borders.” It emphasised the global impact of the Dalai Lama’s teachings and his pivotal role in revitalising Tibetan Buddhism and championing non-violence and harmony.
There was also a hard warning to China: that the issue of reincarnation remains the sole prerogative of the Dalai Lama and “This is a vital step in preserving Tibetan culture and religious freedom.”
