DHARAMSHALA, India: The Dalai Lama turned 90 on July 6, celebrated by thousands of followers in the Himalayan town of Dharamshala, where he has lived in exile since fleeing Chinese rule in Tibet in 1959.

The milestone event drew red-robed monks, nuns, and devotees from around the world, all gathered despite persistent rainfall to honor the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism.

Seated before a packed courtyard at the Tsuglagkhang temple, the Dalai Lama reflected on his life's journey. "When I look back on my life, I see that I have not wasted it at all," he said. "I live my life in the service of other sentient beings."

Wearing his traditional red robe and a bright yellow shawl, the Dalai Lama was escorted by monks amid ceremonial drumming, cymbals, and Tibetan bagpipes. The head of the Tibetan government-in-exile, Penpa Tsering, raised the Tibetan flag as the anthem played, symbolizing both reverence and resistance.

Recognized globally for his warmth and wisdom, Tenzin Gyatso — the 14th Dalai Lama — is revered by millions as a living embodiment of Chenrezig, the Buddhist deity of compassion. He, however, continues to call himself "a simple Buddhist monk."

The celebrations capped a week of spiritual and cultural events. In the days leading up to his birthday, the Dalai Lama addressed speculation about his succession, affirming that he intends to reincarnate after death and that the next Dalai Lama should be chosen according to longstanding Buddhist tradition. He also expressed a wish to live until the age of 130.

His remarks carried political weight. In past statements, he has said his reincarnation would occur outside Chinese-controlled territory. Many Tibetan exiles fear that Beijing will attempt to install its successor to tighten its grip on Tibet, which it invaded in 1950. China, which regards the Dalai Lama as a separatist, insists it alone has the authority to recognize his successor and has rejected any reincarnation outside its oversight.

The spiritual leader's birthday also drew messages from global dignitaries. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised him as "an enduring symbol of love, compassion, patience, and moral discipline." U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the Dalai Lama "continues to inspire people by embodying a message of unity, peace, and compassion."

Hollywood actor and longtime supporter Richard Gere attended the ceremony and called him "the most extraordinary man to ever walk on this planet," drawing loud applause from the audience.

In a birthday message posted on his official website, the Dalai Lama reaffirmed his lifelong goals: "I will continue to focus on my commitments of promoting human values and religious harmony."

Celebrations extended beyond India. Tibetan communities in Kathmandu, Nepal, also marked the day through prayers, chanting, and traditional dances.

Crowned spiritual leader in 1937, the Dalai Lama fled Tibet after a failed uprising in the 1950s. From exile in India, he has led the Tibetan diaspora, preserved their culture and identity, and advocated non-violently for autonomy and human rights.